Bhutan’s top endurance runners have begun the selection journey for the third edition of the Snowman Race, regarded as one of the world’s toughest races. The process began with a 37-kilometre race from Thimphu to Paro, testing the athletes’ strength, speed, and stamina.
Early this morning, 23 runners, including five women, gathered at Motithang in Thimphu to compete in the selection process for Bhutan’s team.
Today’s route ended at Tshondue in Paro, passing through Pumola, Tselupang, Jedikha village and Jela Dzong.
Jampel Choda crossed the finish line first in 3 hours, 27 minutes, and 36 seconds. Tashi Norbu followed closely behind, finishing just 12 seconds later. Choki Dorji came in third, followed by Sangay Wangchuk in fourth and Gyem Tenzin in fifth.
“I took part in the selection rounds of the previous editions as well. However, I was not selected. I am glad that I came in first this time. I am determined to do my best moving forward,” said Jampel Choda.
“This year’s selection round was very tough because of the rain and having to run in the mud. I think it was also difficult because I could not train enough. Nevertheless, I am ready to train hard and be able to compete with other runners in the Race,” said Tashi Norbu.
Among the women participants, Dawa Chozom emerged the fastest with a time of 5 hours 20 minutes and 22 seconds. Sangay Yuden finished second around 10 minutes later.
“I did not participate in the first and second editions of the Race. But I am happy that I did this year and finished first in the women’s category, I am encouraged to train harder and keep improving.”
Following the selection rounds, around seven athletes will be shortlisted for a training camp. From there, five runners will be selected to represent Bhutan at the Snowman Race.
In addition, two slots are reserved for highland runners, whose selection will take place soon.
The Snowman Race follows the legendary Snowman Trek, covering more than 175 kilometres of rugged Himalayan terrain and High Mountain passes. Running at elevations of over 5,400 meters, the ultramarathon is considered among the world’s most challenging races.
“This Snowman Race has not been able to bring attention to our own people here, but globally. Social media now, it gives easy access anywhere in the world with the internet. So, the snowman race has been able to create awareness about the impacts of climate change through the eyes of the runners who go back as voices and messengers of the snowman race and also the story Bhutan is trying to tell about climate action. This is especially for people who are directly impacted at the highland level,” said Damcho Rinzin, Head, Snowman Race Secretariat.
Beyond the competition, the race also raises awareness about climate change and the rapid melting of Himalayan glaciers.
The third edition of the Snowman Race is scheduled for October 24 this year, coinciding with the second day of the Highland Festival.
Karma Samten Wangda and Namgay Wangdi
Edited by Sonam Pem
