Bhutan’s bodybuilding contingent made an emphatic statement at the 15th South Asian Bodybuilding and Physique Sports Championship, flexing their way to four gold, two silver, and three bronze medals on the first day of competition. The championship, being held in Thimphu, has drawn athletes from across South Asia for the two-day event.
Among the standout performers was 45-year-old Sonam Phuntsho from Trashigang, who clinched gold in the Men’s Bodybuilding up to 65 kg category. Competing against one other athlete, Sonam delivered a powerful performance fueled by months of discipline and preparation.
“Today, I am extremely excited. It feels like I am in heaven right now,” he said, visibly emotional. “It was a tough competition, and I have made a lot of sacrifices—avoiding carbs, cutting salt, and even limiting water.”
Dorji Norbu joined the gold medal club by taking the top spot in the Men’s Bodybuilding up to 60 kg category, which featured three competitors. Overwhelmed with emotion, he credited his family for their unwavering support. “I didn’t expect to win, but I’m truly grateful. I owe this to my sister and brother-in-law,” he said.
In the Men’s Athletic Physique division, 35-year-old Mahalal Rai from Tsirang impressed the judges to win gold in the up to 167 cm category. His performance stood out among the three contenders in this division.
“Winning this medal is a moment of pride not just for me but for the entire nation,” he said. “I trained hard and followed a strict diet to be here. Bringing home this gold is a dream come true.”
The fourth gold for Bhutan came from Dawa Tashi, who outperformed four competitors in the Men’s Sports Physique up to 170 cm category. Competing in a regional event for the first time, Dawa was thrilled with his win. “This is incredibly special. I’m overjoyed to earn a medal in my debut,” he said.
Eleven Bhutanese athletes competed on the opening day across three categories: Men’s Bodybuilding, Men’s Athletic Physique, and Men’s Sports Physique. Of the 20 total height and weight divisions scheduled, half were contested on the first day. The remaining categories, along with the crowning of Mr South Asia 2025, are set to take place on the final day of the competition.
The championship features 67 athletes from seven South Asian nations: Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. As the host nation, Bhutan has already made a strong impression, with fans eagerly awaiting further victories on the concluding day.
