Sports is all about Money. Mary Kom was selected to represent India in Pennsylvania, USA to contest under 48 kg World Women’s Boxing championship. Her father managed to collect only Rs. 2,000/- for her trip. Having heard of the cost of living.in USA, her heart sank. Things were very expensive in America. Her parents could do nothing more. She spoke to Onler and some of her friends. They met two local MPs and sought their help. Two MPs donated Rs. 5,000 and 3,000 respectively. It was only with the princely sum of Rs 10,000/- she was able to leave for USA.
Even after winning the first silver for India her financial worries did not end. Prize money offered respite to her immediate financial worries. She had no savings on her except a few insurance policies. She was getting married. She longed for a Government job under sports quota. With a government job she could follow her dreams with a steady income and flexible work schedule. It was only after she won her second World Women’s Boxing Championship gold, the Manipur state government offered her the job of a Sub-Inspector. Her ‘ first salary of Rs 15,000/- gave her a sense of relief.
“There is an old saying that money can’t buy happiness. If it could, I would buy my self four hits every game.”