The Changlimithang Archery Range is poised to host a riveting climax to the 2024 Druk Wangyal National Traditional Archery Tournament as Udzorong Gewog from Trashigang squares off against Martshala Gewog of Samdrupjongkhar in the championship match on January 11.
Organized by the Bhutan Indigenous Games and Sports Association (BIGSA), this year’s tournament has showcased exceptional talent, featuring 58 teams representing 50 gewogs across the kingdom. The competition reached its peak in the semi-finals, where Udzorong narrowly defeated Bidung Gewog with scores of 25-24 and 25-19, while Martshala delivered a commanding performance against Tongmijangsa Gewog, scoring 25-6 and 25-13.
Nado, the captain of Udzorong, expressed his team’s enthusiasm and determination ahead of the final showdown. “We are thrilled to make it to the final and are committed to delivering a strong performance. Our success is thanks to the blessings of our local guardian deities, the prayers of the people of Trashigang, and the unwavering support and confidence of my teammates,” he stated. Udzorong’s team, comprised mainly of drivers from various dzongkhags, acknowledges the formidable challenge posed by Martshala but remains optimistic. “Our opponents are strong, but we’ve given our all in the past five games,” Nado added.
On the other side, Martshala’s captain Lam Dorji is confident in his team’s prospects. “With 10 seasoned players out of our 13-member squad, we are certain of our victory,” Dorji declared. He praised Udzorong’s performance but emphasized the experience and skill of his own team, bolstered by the prayers and support from the people of Samdrupjongkhar.
The tournament has not been without its challenges. Since November 4, three archers from Khoma, Gomdar, and Tongmijangsa Gewogs sustained injuries after being struck by arrows during matches. A BIGSA official clarified that injuries to the Khoma and Gomdar players were minor, requiring no hospital visits, while the Tongmijangsa archer was treated and discharged. “These incidents were due to lapses in concentration while handling arrows. Although safety measures are in place, players must remain vigilant,” the official emphasized. As the final approaches, organizers have urged all participants to prioritize safety and maintain focus.
Beyond the competition, Bhutanese traditional archery is steeped in rituals and superstitions that blend spirituality with sport. Both team captains highlighted the significance of performing serkem, a libation ceremony to appease local deities and ward off negative energies before matches. Many archers place their bows and arrows on altars for blessings and avoid returning home during the tournament to preserve their purity and focus.
Lam Dorji elaborated on these practices, noting, “There is a belief that engaging in certain activities before the game can bring bad luck. To counter this, our players are staying in hotels and maintaining strict discipline.” He further explained that success in archery is not only measured by victory but also by maintaining one’s wangta (charisma) and lungta (fortune). To gain an edge, some teams even consult astrologers and perform elaborate rituals to ensure their opponents’ performance is hindered.
As the final match between Udzorong and Martshala draws near, the nation eagerly anticipates a showdown that embodies both the competitive spirit and rich cultural heritage of Bhutanese archery. With prayers, traditions, and sheer skill on the line, the championship promises to be a memorable event celebrating the heart and soul of Bhutan’s traditional sports.
