Bhutan’s elite endurance athletes have launched the gruelling selection process for the third edition of the Snowman Race, one of the most demanding ultramarathons in the world. The opening trial, a challenging 37-kilometre route from Thimphu to Paro, tested runners against steep terrain, muddy tracks, and relentless weather conditions.
A total of 23 athletes, including five women, assembled at Motithang in Thimphu early this morning to compete for a coveted place on Bhutan’s national team. The route wound through Pumola, Tselupang, Jedikha village, and Jela Dzong before concluding at Tshondue in Paro.
Jampel Choda emerged victorious in the men’s category, completing the course in 3 hours, 27 minutes, and 36 seconds. Tashi Norbu finished only 12 seconds behind, while Choki Dorji secured third place. Sangay Wangchuk and Gyem Tenzin rounded out the top five finishers.
Having previously fallen short during earlier selection campaigns, Jampel Choda described the win as a major personal milestone.
“I participated in earlier selection rounds but was never chosen,” he said. “Finishing first this time gives me confidence, and I want to continue improving in the coming stages.”
Competitors faced particularly difficult conditions this year due to persistent rain and muddy trails, which many runners said added to the physical challenge.
Tashi Norbu, who claimed second place, acknowledged the tough environment and limited preparation time but remained optimistic about the road ahead.
“The course was much harder because of the rain and slippery ground,” he said. “I could not train as much as I wanted, but I am determined to work harder and compete strongly in the race.”
In the women’s division, Dawa Chozom posted the fastest time, crossing the finish line in 5 hours, 20 minutes, and 22 seconds. Sangay Yuden followed roughly 10 minutes later in second place.
For Dawa Chozom, the event marked her first attempt at the Snowman Race selection.
“I did not take part in the first two editions, so I am very happy to compete this year and finish first among the women,” she said. “This motivates me to train harder and improve further.”
Organisers said approximately seven athletes will advance to a specialised training camp, from which five runners will ultimately be selected to represent Bhutan in the October race. Two additional places will be reserved for runners from Bhutan’s highland communities, with their selection process expected to take place separately.
The Snowman Race follows the legendary Snowman Trek, covering more than 175 kilometres of rugged Himalayan terrain and crossing mountain passes above 5,400 metres. The extreme altitude and unforgiving landscape have earned it a reputation as one of the toughest endurance races globally.
Officials say the event serves a purpose beyond competition. According to Damcho Rinzin, head of the Snowman Race Secretariat, the race has become an international platform to highlight Bhutan’s climate advocacy efforts and the growing environmental threats facing Himalayan communities.
He noted that runners returning home from the event often become ambassadors for climate awareness, sharing firsthand stories about glacier retreat and the impact of environmental changes in the highlands.
The race has increasingly drawn international attention through digital platforms and social media, helping spotlight Bhutan’s message on climate action and the vulnerability of mountain ecosystems.
The third edition of the Snowman Race is scheduled to begin on October 24, coinciding with the second day of the annual Highland Festival.
