Phuentsholing, Bhutan – The air is electric with anticipation as the Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck Memorial Archery Tournament enters its quarterfinal stage today, promising exhilarating clashes between seasoned contenders. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Phuentsholing, this prestigious tournament, steeped in tradition and national pride, continues to captivate audiences as it marches towards its thrilling conclusion on March 7.
In today’s fixtures, all eyes will be on Pool B, where Doedjung braces for a showdown against Ratna, while Druk Phuensum gears up to clash with Toka Chuchi on March 4. Meanwhile, the intensity escalates in Pool A as team BPC prepares to face off against Dee Heaven tomorrow, followed by Kobelco locking horns with TT Wangyal on March 6.
With each team securing two victories apiece as of yesterday, the competition has reached a fever pitch, igniting hopes and aspirations for a coveted spot in the semifinals and, ultimately, the grand finale.
Sonam Wangdi of team Ratna exudes confidence in his squad’s prowess, undeterred by the formidable challenge posed by Doedjung. Drawing inspiration from their recent triumph over Khamsum Zilnoen, Wangdi underlines Ratna’s unwavering determination to excel in the forthcoming matches.
The tournament adopts a direct knockout format, demanding teams to claim victory by clinching two sets of 25 points each, adding an extra layer of suspense and drama to the proceedings.
Tshering Wangchuk, representing team TT Wangyal, emphasizes the presence of seasoned players within his ranks, exuding optimism about their potential to make a significant impact against Kobelco. With unwavering resolve, Wangchuk asserts his team’s preparedness and eagerness to seize the tournament title.
Established in 1991, the Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck Memorial Archery Tournament holds a hallowed status as one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered compound archery competitions. Drawing participants from 31 teams spanning various regions of Bhutan and Sikkim, India, the tournament kicked off its exhilarating journey in January.
Dedicated to the cherished memory of the first king, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, this annual extravaganza is orchestrated by the Phuentsholing Sports Association (PSA) as a tribute to the monarch’s enduring legacy and his profound contributions to the nation’s welfare. Additionally, it serves as a poignant ode to the rich cultural heritage encapsulated within the national sport of archery.
Sonam Lhagyel, the esteemed general secretary of PSA, underscores the tournament’s profound significance in fostering camaraderie amongst archers and local denizens, uniting them in a jubilant celebration of national pride and sporting excellence.
As the quarterfinals beckon, excitement permeates the atmosphere, with fervent spectators eagerly awaiting the unfolding spectacle and the revelation of which teams will emerge triumphant, advancing one step closer to archery immortality in the semifinals.
