Amidst the picturesque landscapes of South Korea, national recurve archers Kinley Tshering and Lam Dorji, representing the Bhutan Archery Federation (BAF), have embarked on a crucial journey. Their destination? The Hyundai Archery World Cup Stage two, a pivotal stepping stone towards the grand stage of the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games.
The anticipation is palpable as these two seasoned archers, renowned for their prowess on the international stage, gear up to compete against formidable opponents from around the globe. With the competition drawing participants from approximately 30 nations, the stage is set for an exhilarating display of skill and determination.
Months of rigorous training at the Bhutan Archery Federation’s grounds in Langjophakha, Thimphu, have honed Kinley and Lam’s abilities, instilling in them a sense of readiness to face the challenges that lie ahead. Their journey, however, has not been devoid of setbacks. Last November, despite their best efforts, they fell short of securing a quota at the Bangkok Archery Championship, adding a layer of intensity to their current endeavors.
As they brace themselves for the upcoming battles, the archers, under the guidance of Coach Youngsook Park, a seasoned mentor from South Korea, exude confidence. Coach Park’s leadership played a pivotal role in Bhutan’s qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, a testament to her expertise and the team’s collective resolve.
With the minimum qualifying score set at 640 points, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Kinley and Lam understand that surpassing this threshold is imperative if they are to clinch an Olympic quota. Their journey towards Paris doesn’t culminate here; it extends to the archery championship in Turkey from June 14 to 17, their final opportunity to secure the coveted quota.
While the spotlight shines brightly on Kinley and Lam, the absence of female representation in this endeavor raises questions. BAF’s decision to focus solely on male archers for this campaign underscores the need for continued support and development of women’s participation in archery—a sentiment echoed by officials within the federation.
Amidst the fervor surrounding their quest, the Bhutan Olympic Committee’s plans to select three athletes from boxing, recurve archery, and swimming for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games inject an additional layer of anticipation. Athletes across these disciplines have been undergoing intensive training, embodying the nation’s aspirations for sporting excellence on the global stage.
As the world watches with bated breath, Kinley Tshering and Lam Dorji carry the hopes and dreams of a nation on their shoulders. Their journey symbolizes the indomitable spirit of Bhutanese athletes and serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance in the pursuit of Olympic glory.
