Anju Bobby George has won the prestigious Woman of the Year award for 2021. The award is given every year by the World Athletics organisation. Anju Bobby George has presented the award for her "efforts in advancing the sport in India as well as inspiring more women to follow in her footsteps".
The awards were given in a virtual event on Wednesday 1 December and will be a celebration of the sport, also honouring and recognising organisations and individuals from around the world.
“The former international long jump star from India is still actively involved in the sport. In 2016, Anju opened a training academy for young girls, which has already helped to produce a world U20 medallist. A constant voice for gender equality, she also mentors schoolgirls for future leadership positions within the sport," World Athletics wrote on Twitter.
"There is no better feeling than to wake up everyday and give back to the sport, allowing it to enable and empower young girls! Thank you for recognising my efforts," said Anju Bobby George after winning the award.
Watch the Full World Athletics Awards Ceremony 2021 Here:
In 2003, Anju created history by winning a bronze medal in the long jump of the World Championships. She became the first Indian athlete to do so. For the past several years, she has been training young girls across the country by encouraging them to participate in sports. For this, he also opened a training academy in the year 2016.