Bhutanese bodybuilders are flexing their strength at the ongoing 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship. The Bhutanese athletes claimed four gold, two silver, and three bronze medals on the first day of competition today. The two-day championship is being held in the capital.
Leading the gold medal tally for Bhutan is 45-year-old Sonam Phuntsho from Trashigang, who took home the gold in the Men’s Bodybuilding up to 65 kg category. He competed against one more athlete in this division.
“Today, I am extremely excited. It feels like I am in heaven right now. It was a tough competition, and I have made a lot of sacrifices. I have been on a strict diet, avoiding carbs, cutting down on salt, and even limiting water.”
Joining him is Dorji Norbu, who claimed gold in the Men’s Bodybuilding up to 60 kg category, which saw participation from three athletes.
“I honestly didn’t expect to win the award, but I’m truly happy and grateful to have received this medal. I’d like to sincerely thank my sister and my brother-in-law for their constant support. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
In the Athletic Physique division, 35-year-old Mahalal Rai from Tsirang impressed the judges and secured gold in the up to 167 cm category. Three athletes vied for the title in this division.
“I’m incredibly proud to have won a gold medal for Bhutan. I trained hard and followed a strict diet to prepare for this moment. Winning this medal means a lot to me; it is not just for me, but for the entire country. I am truly happy to bring this honour home.”
The fourth gold for Bhutan came from Dawa Tashi, who triumphed in the Men’s Sports Physique up to 170 cm category, where he outshone four other competitors.
“This is my first time participating in a regional competition, and winning a medal makes it even more special. I am truly glad and overjoyed today.”
Eleven Bhutanese bodybuilders competed across three different categories today: Men’s Bodybuilding, Men’s Athletic Physique, and Men’s Sports Physique.
10 out of 20 different height and weight divisions were completed today, while the remaining ten will be held tomorrow.
The crowning of Mr South Asia 2025 will also take place on the final day of the competition tomorrow.
A total of 67 athletes from seven South Asian countries which include Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Afghanistan, and Pakistan are competing in the championship.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
