After much anticipation of the opening of the only synthetic track in the country, the Bhutan Amateur Athletics Federation (BAAF) is proud to announce that the Athletics field will be finally opened on the 22nd of February.
“The Thimphu track and field stadium is mainly for our youth to explore their talents and spend their time off the street for healthy living and friendship building” Dorji Tenzin, General Secretary, BAAF.
The opening of the field will be graced by the President of the Bhutan Olympic Committee and His Majesty’s Representative, HRH Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck. Further to strengthen the Athletic movement in Bhutan the chief guest for the event is Brig. Gal. Dahlan Jumaan AL-Hamad, Vice President, International Association of Athletic Federation (IAAF), Sr. Vice President Amateur Athletics Association (AAA).
During the opening ceremony the BAAF will be conducting a series of track and field events to mark the opening of the field to the general public. 100 meters sprint for Men and Women, 200 meters sprint for men and women, shot put for both men and women, 4×100 meters relay for both men and women and also an open 1500 meters run.
The track, which took more than two years to complete, has all the basic facilities required in track and field events. The track was constructed at a cost of US$ 660,000.
“Although it has taken some time and no doubt raised some concerns, we are now proud to inaugurate the Thimphu Athletics Track and Field Centre and is the best athletic facility that we have. The facility will benefit the youth of Bhutan and in particular the youth and residents of Thimphu. It is our hope that this facility will encourage a healthy lifestyle and in the future possibly yield athletic champions, who will do our country proud.” Sonam Karma Tshering, Secretary General, Bhutan Olympic Committee.
Senior govt. officials and dignitaries are to be present during the event as well.