Bolton teenager Amir Khan's dream of winning Olympic Gold in the lightweight division at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games ended when classy Cuban Mario Cesar Kindalen out-pointed the young Briton by 30-22.
The 17 year-old wonder kid gave it everything he had, especially in the fourth and final session but the 33 year-old southpaw from Holgu was just too accomplished, fast and experienced for the British hero.
Khan was understandably disappointed at not going home with the Gold but was still happy with his performance. " I thought I did well and thought it could of gone either way," said Khan, " But I got the silver and that's a good achievement.
" He's (Kindalen) the best there is. I'm disappointed but next time in Beijing hopefully I'll get the Gold."
In a tactical opening session Khan looked calm and collected as he picked his shots carefully to end the session 4-3 up. Kindalen stepped up the pace in the second session with superior counter punching against the young talented Brit, to end the session 14-9 in front.
Kindalen again showed his class in the third session, his speed and timing proving just too much for Khan, who faced one of the greatest Cuban boxers of all time. Going into the final session Khan took the fight to Kindalen in one last desperate effort at fulfilling his dream but it just was not to be for the Bolton based youngster.
One thing is for sure, though, British boxing has discovered a fine new genuine talent that is sure to make an even bigger name for himself.
August 29, 2004.
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