Bhutan’s young athletes showcased courage and determination at the Asian Youth Games (AYG) 2025 in Bahrain, marking several historic firsts for the nation despite a series of early eliminations.
Among the standout performers was Sangay Peldon, who etched her name in Bhutanese sporting history by securing the country’s first-ever international boxing victory. Her win brought pride and inspiration to Bhutan’s growing community of young athletes.
In another promising display, Pema Namdel also impressed in the boxing ring, clinching a win before narrowly bowing out in the quarterfinals. Their performances underscored Bhutan’s emerging strength in the sport, signaling brighter prospects for boxing’s future in the Himalayan kingdom.
Meanwhile, Thuksey Jigme Wangchuk represented Bhutan in swimming, finishing 49th overall in the 50-meter freestyle. Competing among Asia’s best, his participation highlighted the country’s expanding presence in aquatic sports — a field still in its early stages of development back home.
While most Bhutanese competitors have exited the tournament, one judoka remains in contention, carrying the nation’s hopes into the later rounds.
The Asian Youth Games, open to athletes aged 14 to 17, feature 26 sports, including several new additions this year. The event continues to serve as a vital platform for nurturing young talent across the continent.
For Bhutan, the 2025 Games have not only been about medals but about milestones — small victories that reflect the country’s growing ambition and its athletes’ unyielding spirit on Asia’s grand sporting stage.
