Naveen bears punches, kicks to bag his goal

Seventeen-year-old Thai boxer Naveen Yadav believes bearing heavy bruises on his body brings him closer to his goal. And what's his goal? He wants his name to be etched forever in the league of extraordinary Indian boxers. 
A resident of Vasundhra Sector 4, Naveen has innumerable state and national level medals to his credit. "There's a long way to go. When I see the rack where I've kept all my medals with pride, I feel something is missing. I know only an international medal can fill the gap," beams Yadav. 
 
Science of eight limbs
Why did he opt for Thai boxing and not cricket, which is a money-spinner? "Muay Thai is not restricted to simple punch boxing. It's an art of all eight limbs. The sport may not be popular today, but it has a great future and the next generation is increasingly getting fond of the game as it is vigorous and more exciting than cricket." 
 
Those few seconds
After winning the 11th National Junior bronze and 4-5th State level gold, Naveen was competing in the finals for another national championship. He was too enthusiastic and hopeful of winning the championship and gave a tough fight to the opponent.
"There was a huge difference between me and my opponent's score. I was almost on the wining end. However, in the last round, I became a bit lethargic due to an injury and those 20 seconds turned my fate against me. However, I learnt a big lesson from those few seconds that every small moment is precious and it depends on us, how we live up to it," he says.   
 
Studies and Muai Thai
For Naveen, getting enduring smashes on body parts by a tough opponent is much easier than solving a complex question paper in an exam. "Teachers are more frightening than a boxer in the ring. However, I'm glad that I have finally completed my schooling with good marks. Presently, I'm pursuing company secretary course. I try to devote morning hours to studies and the rest of the time is for my Thai boxing practice," he says. 
 
A nutritious diet
Soyabean and pulses are something that Naveen loves. "During morning and while going to sleep at night, I drink a glass of milk. I walk to smaller distances rather than riding my bike. My parents, especially my mother, is really supportive and takes good care of me and diet," he says. 

 Message
More than physical, Muay Thai is a mind game. Try to keep your mind as free from stress as you can. A healthy mind can defeat even the most powerful opponent
—Tarun Khanna