The four-day Thimphu Open Table Tennis Championship concluded today, with more than 60 participants competing across five categories. The event was organised by the Bhutan Table Tennis Federation to commemorate 40 years of diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Japan.
In the men’s singles final, 66-year-old Toshihiro Tanaka defeated Bhutan’s top-ranked player Leki Dorji in a 4–1 set victory.
Tanaka, who currently serves as the Vice-President of the Japan Bhutan Friendship Association, is a three-time All Japan Veteran Champion. He was also a table tennis coach in Bhutan.
Toshihiro Tanaka said, “I saw this as a good opportunity to make sure that this friendship will continue and will grow. So next year or every year I will come. All right? That is our commitment.”
Despite finishing runner-up in the men’s singles, Leki Dorji teamed up with Tshering Passang Wangchuk to win the Lucky Doubles category yesterday. The 25-year-old Leki Dorji from Trashigang has represented Bhutan in seven international tournaments.
Leki Dorji said, “Singles didn’t go as I had expected; however, I am really happy to have had the opportunity to play against the Japanese coach in the final. Table tennis is steadily improving in Bhutan. I am a scholarship recipient of the Bhutan Olympic Committee and Royal Thimphu College, and I am grateful for the continued support from the Committee.”
In the women’s singles, 26-year-old Sonam Dema defeated Sonam Choki Tamang yesterday to claim the title. Sonam Dema has also represented Bhutan in international competitions.
Sonam Dema said, “I am very happy to win the title. I don’t always get enough time to train as I have to help my mother at home, but I try to make time whenever I can. With regular practice and determination, I was able to perform well and win the match. I am very happy.”
Similarly, the Para Table Tennis singles league and Veterans’ singles finals were also held yesterday.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Tandin Phuntsho
