The National Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship continues to draw more participants, with over 30 athletes taking part in this year’s championship. It is a notable increase compared to previous editions. The number of contestants in the men’s junior bodybuilding category has tripled this year, reflecting growing interest in the sport among Bhutanese youth. The 15th National Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship 2026 was held at Clock Tower Square in Thimphu yesterday, with athletes competing across several bodybuilding and fitness categories.
The men’s junior bodybuilding category saw the largest increase. Six athletes aged between 18 and 21 competed this year, compared to just two last year.
19-year-old Dorji Gyeltshen emerged as the winner in the men’s junior bodybuilding category. Training in Thimphu, Dorji recently represented Bhutan at the 16th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships, where he won a bronze medal in the same category. He received a cash prize of 50 thousand ngultrum.
Dorji Gyeltshen said, “Next year as well, I am planning to participate in the competition. I am hoping to do better than this year. I don’t know whether I can do better. I am hoping to work hard. I am still young, and I have many thoughts in mind. So far, I have participated with hard work and dedication, and I hope to continue my hard work and perform well in the future.”
Karma Lhendup secured the silver medal, while Sherab Kuenden Jamtsho claimed bronze. Bipul Pradhan finished fourth.
Among the new faces in the top five was 19-year-old Nima Tandin from Wangdue Phodrang. A Class 12 student at Norbugang Higher Secondary School in Samtse, Nima finished fifth in his debut appearance at the national championship.
Despite limited access to training equipment and facilities, he pursued bodybuilding through determination and consistent training. He began training several years ago and said competing at the national level has motivated him to improve further.
Nima Tandin said, “Our life journey is not always smooth. Sometimes there are twists and turns, bumps that test our resilience. During these times, we discover our inner strength and courage. If we work hard and remain disciplined, then we can do good things and make ourselves, our teachers, and our parents proud. It is hard for us. But when we have a strong hunger for success, it is not a hard task for us. If we have a big dream and follow it, then it is not hard for us.”
According to the organisers, growing awareness of fitness, better access to training facilities, and increased exposure to regional competitions are encouraging more young people to take up the sport.
“We are very happy that we are providing this platform for them. They are also coming forward, doing their best, and giving their best in this championship. We are very hopeful that in the future they will continue to come forward. Every year, the number of participants is increasing, not only in junior bodybuilding but in other categories as well,” said Sonam Tobgay, the general secretary of Bhutan Bodybuilding Association.
In the men’s open bodybuilding category, Thinley Dorji was once again crowned Mr Bhutan 2026.
Competing against eight other athletes, Thinley delivered another dominant performance to secure his second Mr Bhutan title after first winning it in 2024. Along with the trophy, medal, and certificate, he received a cash prize of USD 5,000.
Thinley Dorji said, “I would like to thank all the Bhutanese who came here to support us. When we have supporters, it motivates us. I am very happy to win the title again after resting for a year. I plan to participate in the future as well.”
Mahalal Rai secured the silver medal, while Sonam Phuntsho won bronze.
In the women’s model physique category, Yeshi Lham won gold, Ugyen Pema secured silver, and Kinzang Choden claimed bronze among six competitors.
In the men’s sports physique category, Sumit Rai claimed gold, Dawa Tashi won silver, and Yeshey Dorji took bronze. Twelve athletes competed in the category.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Phub Gyem
