Bhutan is set to make its debut at the Asian Rifle/Pistol Cup 2025 in Bangkok. Two shooters, Tandin Wangchuk and Kinley Penjor, will represent the country in the 10m Air Pistol Men’s category. The duo has been training rigorously for months, aiming to compete against Asia’s top marksmen.
Tandin Wangchuk and Kinley Penjor have been training for about two hours daily since September last year for this competition. The 13-day tournament kicks off on Monday, with 319 athletes from 24 countries vying for 224 medals.
Their training mainly emphasised technique, mental resilience, and competition strategy.
Despite financial constraints, the Bhutan Shooting Federation prioritised this participation, recognising its importance in preparing athletes for the 2026 Asian Games.
22-year-old Tandin Wangchuk from Gelephu took up the sport in 2021. He first competed in the Asian Games in 2023. This is his second appearance on the international stage.
The final-year student at Royal Thimphu College aims to improve his performance.
He said “Previously, I participated in the Asian Games, but my performance didn’t meet my expectations. In this Asian Cup, I hope to give my best and improve my performance compared to the last one.”
Meanwhile, 25-year-old Kinley Penjor from Trashigang tried his hands at shooting in 2023. This is his first international appearance.
Kinley, a soldier, shared that despite his lack of experience in international competition, he is ready to showcase his talent at the event.
“This is my first competition at both national and international levels, and I am truly excited to be a part of it. I have been training with the federation for about two years, and I hope this experience will help me gain more exposure. While I cannot promise a win, we have been working hard, and I am determined to make our country proud.”
Kinley Penjor earned his spot based on his performance in the selection competition.
Likewise, Tandin Wangchuk was selected under Bhutan’s Elite Athlete Support and Training Programme.
The duo has been training rigorously under the guidance of International Shooting Sports Federation certified coach Dorji Phurba since September last year.
Coach Dorji Phurba said, “I will play the important role of coach wherever necessary during the competition, offering tactical and technical advice, or any guidance they may need. If I notice that they are stressed or are facing challenges, it will be my responsibility to call a tactical timeout and offer the necessary advice. Hopefully, they will give their best and treat this competition as a learning platform and get exposure for future games.”
Currently, Kinley and Tandin share a similar average personal record of 560 points in 60 shots out of 600 points.
According to the Asian Shooting Confederation, 72 gold, 72 silver, and 80 bronze will be awarded for various individual and team events.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Kipchu
