Wrestling Trials: Why did Vinesh Phogat choose to compete in two weight categories?
Vinesh Phogat recently resorted to social media to address some of the controversies surrounding her participation in the 50 kg and 53 kg weight categories at the Asian Olympic qualifiers and Asian Championships selection trials.
Clarifying Controversies: Vinesh Phogat's Statement
"There have been claims circulating that I did not undergo a doping test after the trials. I want to clarify that I, along with all other finalists, have undergone doping tests after both the senior nationals held in the previous month and following the recent trials," Phogat stated.
She also discussed her participation in both the 50kg and 53kg weight divisions during the tryouts, which prompted disagreement among wrestling fans.
"Regarding my participation in the 53kg category, it is critical to realize that Article 7 of the UWW regulations, which states that each participant may participate in just one weight category matching to their official weigh-in, relates to international competitions rather than national trials. This was approved by the Ad-hoc committee and authorities, allowing me to compete in both the 50kg and 53kg weight categories during the trials," Phogat further stated.
During the current talks, Phogat's performance in the trials has also sparked curiosity. She demonstrated clinical brilliance in her battles, winning in both the 50kg and 53kg categories.
"I was not sure whether the final selection trial in the 53kg class would be place at all. That's why I competed in two weight classes," Phogat said following her victory in the 50kg final in Punjab.
Phogat emphasized that her involvement in numerous categories conformed with the rules, echoing the ad hoc panel head, Bhupender Singh Bajwa, on the interpretation of UWW regulations.
Furthermore, in response to doping allegations, Phogat said that she and the other finalists had completed obligatory testing following the trials.
"I want to clarify that I, along with other finalists, have undergone dope tests after both the senior nationals held in the previous month and following the recent trials," Phogat went on to say.
As concerns over Phogat's participation and performance continue, the wrestling world excitedly anticipates the final selection trial in late May, which will determine which wrestlers will represent India in the next tournaments.