Boxer Caitlin Parker has made Olympic history, becoming the first Australian woman to secure an Olympic medal.
Achieving her dream, Caitlin defeated reigning Moroccan world champion Khadija Mardi 4-1 in the women’s 75kg quarter-finals at the North Paris Arena, guaranteeing her at least a bronze medal.
A jubilant Caitlin could barely express her emotions after her victory.“I've got every emotion going through me right now,” Caitlin said.
“I've done it. Finally secured an Olympic medal. The first female from Australia to win an Olympic medal feels incredible.
“I couldn't be happier.”
Caitlin looked in control of the bout against Mardi from the outset, blocking several flurry attempts from the Moroccan and countering with several solid blows to both her head and body.
Her fast footwork was key in avoiding several swings from her opponent, with Mardi’s height advantage not playing a factor in the bout.
This continued across the first two rounds, with Caitlin able to land crucial punches to build up points throughout the opening six minutes to win the opening two rounds.
With her back against the wall, Madri came out firing in the third round, with a flurry of punches causing her to stumble and fall to the mat in the last three minutes.
However, a composed Caitlin never faulted, reading every move from her opponent to perfection and landing crucial counter hits to ensure she secured the victory.
“I knew I was in control of the fight,” she said. “Winning every round is amazing.
“I've never come across her before and I wanted to go out there and bring my game.
“I wanted to show Australia and the world what I was capable of.”
Caitlin will now face Chinese boxer Li Qian in the semi-finals on 8 August at Rolland-Garros Stadium, and said that she is ready for the challenge of facing the number one ranked boxer in her division.
“I've already done my study and tactics for her, so I know what to expect,” she said.
“She's smart. But I am smarter.
“I've always known and always believed that I can win a gold.
“I'm going to do whatever it takes to win that gold medal.”
This article was originally written for The Australian Olympic Team. You can read the published version here
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