By Victor Gurung

Shooting is not just about aiming at a target—it’s about discipline, focus, and mental endurance. At just 18 years old, Ugyen Tshering has already proven himself as one of Bhutan’s most promising athletes in 10-meter air rifle shooting. From a young boy mesmerized by shooting games at local fairs to an elite rifle shooter, his journey is a testament to passion and persistence.

Ugyen’s love for shooting began unexpectedly. “When I was in Class 7, my dad took me to a fair. I tried one of those shooting games, and I hit almost every target,” he recalls with a laugh. “I remember my family being amazed—they couldn’t believe I had that kind of accuracy.”

That moment ignited a spark. Encouraged by his father, he joined a coaching camp in 2018. However, juggling school and training proved difficult, and he could only train during summer and winter breaks.

“I never gave up on the dream,” Ugyen says. “I knew that once I completed Class 12, I could dedicate myself fully to shooting.” True to his word, in 2023, he became a full-time athlete while also pursuing a degree in Business Studies under the prestigious His Majesty’s Scholarship.

Becoming a top-tier shooter isn’t just about practice on the range. Ugyen emphasizes the importance of physical and mental preparation. “I do endurance training to strengthen my core and improve stability. At home, I’ve developed my own exercise routines to complement my professional training,” he explains.

Maintaining a disciplined diet is another crucial aspect of his regimen. “You can’t just eat anything if you want to perform at your best. Your body needs to be in peak condition,” he shares.

All this hard work has paid off. At a winter coaching camp this year, Ugyen took first place among 20 participants. His current record—an impressive 590.7 out of 654—has set him apart as one of the brightest talents in Bhutan’s shooting federation.

For Ugyen, the journey doesn’t stop here. His ultimate dream? To represent Bhutan on the global stage. “I want to participate in international competitions, and one day, I hope to compete in the Olympics,” he says with determination.

He draws inspiration from the unwavering support of his family and the opportunities provided by His Majesty. “I am deeply grateful for the chance to pursue both my studies and my passion for shooting. It’s a responsibility I carry with pride,” he says.

Ugyen’s story is not just about shooting—it’s about pursuing dreams against all odds. “To the younger generation, I want to say this: Find your passion and stick to it. There will be challenges, but if you stay focused and disciplined, you can achieve anything,” he advises.

He also encourages youth to embrace the balance between education and sports. “It’s not easy, but it’s possible. Sports teach you life skills—discipline, focus, and resilience—that are valuable in every aspect of life.”

For Ugyen, shooting is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life. “When I’m on the range, everything else fades away. It’s just me, the rifle, and the target. It’s a meditative experience,” he explains.

With his sights set on the future, Ugyen embodies the spirit of determination and gratitude. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, even the loftiest goals are within reach.

The lesson? Keep your eyes on the target—whether it’s in shooting or in life—and never stop aiming higher.