Bhutan’s Youth Athletes Mark a Strong Debut at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain

Bhutan’s Youth Athletes Mark a Strong Debut at the
Asian Youth Games in Bahrain

Bahrain, 26 October 2025 — Team Bhutan continues to make its mark at the 3rd edition of the Asian Youth Games (AYG) in Bahrain with a young and determined group of athletes. For many, this marks their first-ever international competition, yet their spirited performances and discipline have earned admiration and pride for the nation.

Despite being a relatively inexperienced team, the Bhutanese athletes have shown resilience, focus, and commitment across multiple sporting disciplines — boxing, muay, athletics, taekwondo, swimming, and judo.

Bhutan’s highlight so far has come from the boxing ring, where the nation’s young pugilists have displayed grit, confidence, and unwavering determination. Pema Namdel delivered Bhutan’s first victory at the Games with a hard-fought win against Takleef Almohaimen Ali Takleef of Iraq. The bout ended in a split decision, reflecting just how closely contested the match was, yet Pema’s commanding presence in the ring stood out. With his sharp jabs, quick hooks, and agile footwork, he consistently kept his opponent on the defensive, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd. His victory not only lifted the team’s morale but also marked a proud moment for Bhutan in the boxing arena at the Asian Youth Games.

Equally impressive was Sangay Peldon, who secured a thrilling victory over MUHANNA Jana Mohammed M of Saudi Arabia by split decision. Despite being one of her first international bouts, Sangay displayed remarkable composure, sharp reflexes, and clean execution of her punches. Her precise combinations and relentless spirit kept her opponent under pressure throughout the match. She is now set to face Ahaanna Sharma from India today, 26th October 2025, at 12 PM (Arabic Standard Time), in what promises to be another action-packed encounter. Meanwhile, Pema Namdel will return to the ring for his next bout against Phyong Guk An from North Korea.

In the athletics events, both Bhutanese athletes achieved new Personal Bests (PBs) in the 800m category. Kinley Dawa Tshering, competing in the Boys 800m, clocked 2:13.86, setting a new PB though narrowly missing qualification for the next round. Similarly, Chimmi Pelden ran the Girls 800m with a timing of 2:37.18, also setting a new PB and demonstrating consistent progress at this level of competition.

In Muay, both Bhutanese athletes made their international debuts and exceeded expectations with their confident performances. Pema Tsokye Dorji competed in the Girls Wai Kru (14–15 age category) on 23rd October 2025, scoring 7.17 points to secure 7th position out of eight competitors. Her teammate, Sonam Dorji, took part in the Boys Wai Kru (14–15 age category) on 25th October 2025, scoring 7.43 points and finishing 7th out of nine competitors. Their performances reflect strong potential and a promising start for Bhutan’s growing interest in Muay sports.

In the taekwondo discipline, Lhasang Dolma Tamang competed in the Girls -49kg category, facing Chieh-Ling Wang from Chinese Taipei. Despite a valiant effort, she was unable to advance — yet the match marked her debut on the international stage, offering valuable experience for future competitions.

Bhutan’s participation continues with upcoming events in Judo and Swimming. Sangay Thinley will represent the nation in the Judo -50kg category on 29th October 2025 at Exhibition World Bahrain, while Thuksey Jigme Wangchuk, one of Bhutan’s youngest athletes, will take to the pool for the 50m Freestyle on 27th October and the 100m Freestyle on 28th October 2025, both scheduled at Khalifa Sports City. These two young athletes are ready to give their best as Bhutan continues its journey at the Games.

While the 3rd Asian Youth Games marks a debut for most of Bhutan’s athletes, the team’s performances have reflected courage, discipline, and steady growth. From powerful boxing displays to graceful Muay routines and record-breaking runs on the track, Team Bhutan has shown that the nation’s sporting future is bright.

Bhutan is participating in six sports disciplines — Muay, Athletics, Boxing, Taekwondo, Swimming, and Judo — at the 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain. Despite being a young and developing contingent, the athletes continue to compete with heart, representing Bhutan with pride, determination, and the true spirit of sportsmanship.