Anju Bobby George is a well-known Indian athlete, especially famous in the world of track and field. She has made India proud on many occasions by winning several international medals in long jump. Anju is considered one of the best athletes in India’s sports history.
Early Life and Background
Anju Bobby George was born on April 19, 1977, in Changanassery, Kerala, India. From a very young age, she was interested in sports, particularly athletics. Her father, K.T. Markose, was also an athlete, which inspired her to pursue sports. Anju attended the Government High School in Changanassery, where she started participating in athletics. Later, she completed her graduation from Vimala College, Thrissur.
Career Beginnings
Anju’s journey into athletics started at a young age. She began by participating in school-level competitions, where she showed promise. As she grew older, her passion for sports deepened. Anju initially trained under her school coach, and later, under her college coach, she developed her skills further. Her coaches noticed her talent, and she was soon competing in state-level competitions.
Her big break came when she won the 100m hurdles and 4x100m relay in the 1996 National School Games. This victory marked the beginning of her rise in Indian athletics.
National and International Achievements
Anju’s career took off when she started competing at national and international levels. In 1999, she won her first national title in long jump. In the same year, she bagged her first international medal by winning a bronze medal at the South Asian Federation (SAF) Games.
Her most significant achievement came in 2003 when she won the bronze medal in the World Championships in Athletics held in Paris. Anju became the first Indian athlete ever to win a medal at the World Championships. This was a historic moment for Indian athletics. Her jump of 6.70 meters in this event remains one of her best performances.
In 2004, she competed in the Athens Olympics, where she finished in sixth place. This was a remarkable achievement, as she was the first Indian woman to reach the final round in an Olympic track and field event.
Anju also won gold medals at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. She continued to perform well in various international competitions, including the Asian Athletics Championships and the IAAF World Athletics Final.
Personal Life
Anju Bobby George is married to Robert Bobby George, who is also her coach. The couple has two children. Robert has played a significant role in shaping Anju’s career. He has been a constant source of support and guidance for her throughout her journey in athletics.
Age, Weight, and Height
As of 2024, Anju Bobby George is 47 years old. She stands at a height of 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) and weighs around 64 kg (141 lbs). Her athletic build and fitness have played a crucial role in her success as a long jumper.
Net Worth and Salary in 2024
Anju Bobby George’s net worth in 2024 is estimated to be around $3 million. This net worth is accumulated from her earnings through various sources, including her athletic career, endorsements, and other ventures.
Anju has been a part of several endorsement deals throughout her career. She has endorsed brands like Adidas and Coca-Cola, which have contributed significantly to her income. Additionally, she has also been involved in promotional activities for various products, which have added to her earnings.
In terms of salary, Anju Bobby George has received financial support from the Indian government and various sports organizations. As a top athlete, she was provided with a stipend and other benefits during her active years in athletics. Even after retirement, she continues to receive income through her involvement in sports-related activities, including coaching and mentoring young athletes.
Awards and Recognition
Anju Bobby George has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. She was awarded the Arjuna Award in 2002, which is one of India’s highest sporting honors. In 2004, she received the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honor.
In 2021, Anju was awarded the BBC Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding contribution to Indian sports. This award recognized her achievements and her role in inspiring the next generation of athletes in India.
Post-Retirement Activities
After retiring from competitive athletics, Anju Bobby George has remained active in the sports community. She has taken on various roles, including being a coach, mentor, and sports administrator. Anju is involved in promoting athletics in India and has been working towards the development of young athletes.
She has also been a part of several sports organizations and committees. Anju has served as the chairperson of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and has been involved in the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). Her experience and knowledge in the field of athletics have made her a valuable asset in these roles.
Philanthropy and Social Work
Anju Bobby George is also known for her involvement in various philanthropic activities. She has been actively working towards the upliftment of underprivileged children and promoting sports at the grassroots level. Anju believes in giving back to society and has been involved in several initiatives aimed at supporting young athletes from economically weaker sections.
Through her foundation, the Anju Bobby George Foundation, she has been working to provide training and support to young athletes. The foundation focuses on identifying and nurturing talent in athletics and providing them with the necessary resources to succeed.
Legacy and Influence
Anju Bobby George’s legacy in Indian athletics is immense. She is an inspiration to many young athletes in the country. Her achievements have paved the way for future generations of Indian athletes, particularly women, to aspire for greatness in the field of sports.
Anju’s success story is a testament to hard work, dedication, and perseverance. She has shown that with the right support and determination, one can achieve great heights in any field. Her journey from a small town in Kerala to the world stage is a source of inspiration for many.
Conclusion
Anju Bobby George is a true legend in Indian sports. Her achievements have made her a role model for many aspiring athletes. As of 2024, she continues to inspire and contribute to the world of athletics. Her net worth of $3 million reflects her successful career and the impact she has made in the field of sports.
Anju’s story is not just about her success in athletics, but also about her commitment to promoting sports and helping the next generation of athletes. She is a shining example of what can be achieved with passion and dedication.