As India’s only medallist at the IAAF World Championships (Paris, 2003), a gold medallist in the IAAF World Athletics Finals (Monaco, 2005) and a remarkably consistent performer throughout her wonderful career, Anju Bobby George is among the country’s most inspirational track and field stars. Her contribution to sport is invaluable and makes a natural for AFI Hall of Fame.

Anju Bobby George finished sixth in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens with a personal best leap of 6.83m but was elevated to fifth place in 2007 when the United States of America’s Marion Jones was disqualified for a doping offence. There is a growing feeling that she was denied podium finishes by Russian athletes who were all suspended for violation of doping rules at a later stage.

Her gold medal in the Asian Games in Busan in 2002 with a jump of 6.53m was an early indication of things to come the following couple of years. From a 5.98m jumper in 1996, her rise was encouraging but she stagnated a little before blossoming fully under the coaching of husband Robert Bobby George.

She has conducted herself with immense dignity and grace, continuing to stamp her presence and contribute to Indian athletics in various roles. Anju Bobby George made the country proud during her athletic career and beyond. She is a shining jewel in the Indian track and field sports’ crown, inspiring others to emulate her feat of winning a World Championships medal for the country.