Arya News - This not only highlights the growing popularity of the sport in the country but also underscores Bhutan`s emergence as a credible venue for international sporting events in Asia.
THIMPHU – After a 14-year break, Bhutan is once again stepping onto the international bodybuilding stage. The country will host the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championships 2025 from June 11 to 15 at the iconic Clock Tower Square in Thimphu.
Bhutan first hosted the regional bodybuilding championship in 2011. This year’s return not only highlights the growing popularity of the sport in the country but also underscores Bhutan’s emergence as a credible venue for international sporting events in Asia.
Organised by the Bhutan Bodybuilding Association (BBA), the championship will bring together some of South Asia’s most dedicated athletes in a celebration of strength, discipline, and aesthetics.
Around 100 competitors from seven countries — Bhutan, India, Nepal, the Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan — are expected to take part across 20 categories, including Mr South Asia, bodybuilding, sports physique, and athletic physique.
As of yesterday, 75 athletes have registered, including 21 from Bhutan, nine of whom are women. Most of Bhutan’s participants are based in Thimphu and are currently undergoing intense preparations.
“This is a matter of national pride,” said Sonam Tobgay, general secretary of the BBA. “Our athletes are training rigorously. The competition will be tough, but we believe our team has what it takes to finish among the top.”
The event is being held under the umbrella of the South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation, with the endorsement of the World Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation (WBPF) and the Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Federation (ABPF). The Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC) is supporting the event, lending further legitimacy to its international standing.
Among Bhutan’s contenders is Kinzang Deki, the reigning women’s model physique champion from the 13th National Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship.
“I’m excited,” she said. “I will compete in the model physique 155 cm category. The field is strong, but I’m on track with my training and watching my diet closely.”
However, one notable absence will be Thinley Wangkay Dorji, the 2024 Mr Bhutan titleholder and world champion. The BBA confirmed that he would skip this competition to focus on preparing for the 2025 Mr. Bhutan Championship and the World Championship.
Another promising Bhutanese contender is Sonam Phuntsho, who made his mark by finishing fourth in both the men’s 70 kg and masters (40–49 age group, 80 kg) categories at the 56th Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship in Indonesia. This will be his debut in the South Asian Championships, though he has competed twice at the Asian and World stages.
“I’ll be competing in the senior men’s 65 kg category,” said Sonam. “There will be fewer competitors than at the Asian or World Championships. I’m confident and aiming for gold.”
The championship will be broadcast live on BBS TV and WBPF TV, ensuring fans across the region won’t miss a moment. The judging panel will include over 10 experienced judges, including neutral and local representatives.
Renowned stage marshal Samuel from Hong Kong will oversee the proceedings to ensure professional standards.
Beyond the medals and muscle, the event aims to promote bodybuilding as part of a healthy lifestyle and to boost sports tourism in Bhutan.
With spotlights set to shine on Thimphu’s Clock Tower, the nation is gearing up for a showcase of grit, glory, and sporting excellence.