For 165 university athletes competing in Paro this week, the University Summer Games is about more than winning medals. For a few outstanding performers, the tournament could become the first step towards representing Bhutan at the World University Games in South Korea next year. The fourth edition of the University Summer Games has brought together athletes from 10 colleges to compete in badminton, table tennis and taekwondo.
For Jigme Singye of the College of Natural Resources, this year’s University Summer Games are about redemption.
Two years ago, he walked away with a bronze medal. This time, he wants gold. He hopes that his performance could bring him one step closer to competing on the international stage.
Jigme Singye said, “Since then, I have worked hard and stayed motivated. Knowing that there may be an opportunity to compete in South Korea next year keeps me hopeful.”
Jigme is not alone. Many are looking for the same opportunities. For some, it is their first taste of national-level competition. For others, it is a chance to prove they are ready for something bigger.
“This is my first time participating in an event like this, and it is truly a privilege to be here. It gives college students like us an opportunity to represent our colleges at the national level,” said Tshering Lhazom, who is a contender for a medal in Taekwondo, Paro College of Education.
“This is my first time taking part in the University Summer Games, so I feel both nervous and excited. I encourage other college students to participate because the games offer great exposure and, for some athletes, may even open opportunities to compete internationally, including at the World University Games in South Korea,” says Tshering Dorji, a badminton player representing Sherubtse College.
The University Summer Games have become a platform for young athletes since they began in 2016. Athletes identified through previous editions have gone on to represent Bhutan in competitions held in Thailand, China, Taiwan and Germany.
However, organisers say producing international athletes is only part of the goal. They say the games are designed to promote education through sport, helping students develop discipline, teamwork and leadership alongside athletic skills.
“The main purpose and vision of our university games is to provide education through sports. It promotes healthy lifestyles and gives students opportunities to develop physically, mentally, socially and morally. Sports help them grow individually and also as part of a team,” said Pema Chophel, an officiating general secretary of Bhutan University Sports Federation.
The tournament follows internationally recognised competition rules, giving athletes experience in an environment similar to international events.
Organised every two years by the Bhutan University Sports Federation, this year’s games are being held at Norbuling Rigter College in Paro.
The tournament continues until Saturday, but for many athletes, the real competition may begin long after the final whistle, with opportunities beyond Bhutan now within reach.
Karma Samten Wangda, Paro
Edited by Sangay Chezom
