Six Bhutanese boxers left for Bangkok yesterday to compete in the Asian U-19 and U-22 Boxing Championships 2025. After months of rigorous training, they are determined to make their mark for Bhutan on one of Asia’s biggest boxing stages. The championship begins tomorrow at the Indoor Stadium Huamark in the Thai capital.
The team departed for Bangkok yesterday morning. The athletes have undergone months of intensive training in preparation for the tournament.
Among the boxers is 21-year-old Tashi Yoezer from Lhuentse, who will compete in the 55 kg weight category. He clinched gold in a boxing friendly match held in Nepal and the Four Nations Boxing Championship held in Thimphu recently.
With three international tournaments already under his belt, he’s one of the most experienced members of the team.
“We can’t guarantee victory, but we are confident in our preparation. All of us are experienced boxers, and we are ready to give our best in the ring.”
Another medal hopeful is 21-year-old Kinley from Trongsa, who will fight in the 65 kg weight category. Like Tashi, he also won two gold medals in the same competitions earlier this year.
“After the Four Nations Boxing Championship, we have been training intensively. I am hopeful and aiming to win at least two to three matches in the tournament.”
20-year-old Kinley Phuntsho, also from Lhuentse, will take part in the 50 kg category. He secured a gold medal during the Joint Training and Friendship Tournament held in Bangladesh earlier this year.
“I got a chance to compete in Bangkok because of the support from the Bhutan Olympic Committee and also because I have been working hard and have a real passion for boxing.”
Similarly, 19-year-old Dechen Dorji from Monggar will compete in the 60 kg weight category, aiming to make a strong impact on the international stage.
“We have all been training hard for this tournament. With the techniques our coach has taught us, we are well-prepared and hopeful for a strong performance.”
In the U19 category, 18-year-old Zigdal Zangmo from Samtse will represent Bhutan in the 51 kg female category.
She won a silver medal at the recent Four Nations Championship.
“This is my first time competing in the Asian Championship. I have been training well, and even though others might be more experienced, I will give my best and fight with full determination.”
Also making his international debut is 18-year-old Jampel Chedup.
He will fight in the 60 kg U19 category. Jampel previously earned a silver medal at the Joint Training and Friendship Tournament in Bangladesh.
“I haven’t given up on either sports or studies. I try to give both equal importance. Even when school gets in the way, I manage my time and make sure to train. I can’t say if I will win or lose, but I will give it everything I have got.”
The team is led by 44-year-old Head Coach Girchungla, who has been instrumental in the team’s preparation.
“We have been training these athletes continuously. I have shared everything I know with them, and I believe they are ready to compete on equal footing with boxers from across Asia.”
With over 25 nations competing and nearly 400 boxers registered, the tournament promises high stakes and Bhutan’s rising talents are ready to test their mettle on one of Asia’s biggest boxing stages.
Karma Wangdi
Edited by Kipchu
