Bhutan’s Kinga Norbu put on a gutsy and determined performance to win bronze in the -60kg category at the BKSP Cup International Judo Championship 2025, a two-day event being held on 25th and 26th May at the Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protishthan (BKSP).

Facing off against the best U20 judokas from Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, Kinga fought a total of five matches in a stacked 11-man category. He kicked off his campaign in style by beating a Bangladeshi opponent by ippon, showing calm control and sharp technique.

In his second fight, Kinga went head-to-head with a tough contender from Nepal — the same athlete who recently bagged gold at the NECOS Judo Championship. The match was balanced until a small slip saw Kinga caught in a chokehold, forcing him to tap out.

Refusing to let the loss break his rhythm, the 18-year-old came back strong in the repechage. He first defeated Bangladesh’s Rafayet Islam by ippon, then lost to Nepal’s Sabin Gurung. With one last shot at the podium, Kinga went all out and overcame Estiak Ahmad Ansar of Bangladesh, securing the bronze medal.

Kinga, a Pelkhil School Judo Scholarship recipient, has been training under Bhutan’s judo grassroots and development program for the past seven years. His bronze today is a proud moment for the country and a reward for his years of discipline and hard work.

Also competing for Bhutan in the championship are Tenzin Dorji (+73kg) and Yeshay Nidup (-66kg), who are set to take the mat tomorrow.