The grand finale of the Druk Ghi Nyagoe Dendur, Bhutan’s strongman competition, is ready to kick off. After an intense semi-final round held today in Thimphu, the top five finalists have been selected. They are from Trongsa, Punakha, Bumthang, Sarpang and Dagana. The grand finale will take place on Tuesday during the 117th National Day celebrations.
The finalists for the competition are Jinpa Tshewang from Trongsa, who secured the top spot in three minutes and six seconds; Karma Yoezer from Punakha, finishing second in three minutes and 11 seconds; Pasang Dorji from Bumthang, coming in third in three minutes and 18 seconds; Tshering Phuntsho from Sarpang, placing fourth in three minutes and 53 seconds; and Gyem Tshering from Dagana, finishing fifth in five minutes and 31 seconds. They will now prepare to compete for the coveted title.
“Trongsa has won the Druk Nyagoe Dendur competition before. I will give it my all to continue their legacy and bring the title back to Trongsa,” said Jinpa Tshewang, a competitor from Trongsa.
“Making it to the top five is not just my achievement, it’s the result of your prayers and support. There’s still a lot to prepare, and I promise to give my best in the finals. I hope Punakha continues to stand by me, and I aim to perform even better next time,” said Karma Yoezer, a competitor from Punakha.
“The best of the best have been chosen, and I’m honoured to be among them. With your continued support, I’ll give my everything to excel in the finals,” said Pasang Dorji, a competitor from Bumthang.
The mood was bittersweet for those who narrowly missed qualification, like Tshering Phuntsho from Tashi Yangtse, who fell short of qualifying for the fifth position by only one second. Despite the disappointment, the competitors shared a sense of camaraderie and support.
“I didn’t make it to the top five this time, but there’s no reason to feel disheartened. My journey ends here for now, but I’ll come back stronger next time. I wish the very best to those who have advanced.”
“I wish nothing but success for everyone who made it to the top five. The competition is becoming tougher, and the challenges are getting heavier. I hope my fellow competitors perform their best while also taking care of their health,” said Jurmey Wangdi, a competitor from Trashigang.
With the finals approaching, the competition is about to get even more challenging. Organisers have announced that the final round will be tougher and that it is designed to truly test the limits of the remaining competitors.
Karma Samten Wangda
Edited by Sonam Pem
