A new era in Bhutanese sports began today as the country hosted its first-ever National Archery Championship at the iconic Changlimithang archery range in Thimphu. The event marks a significant step in modernising Bhutan’s beloved national sport, introducing international-style rules while preserving the deep-rooted cultural traditions that make archery a symbol of national identity.
The tournament, which kicked off with much fanfare, features 84 teams from across Bhutan and neighbouring Sikkim, including a trailblazing women’s team. Over 420 archers will take part in the month-long competition, which adopts a league-cum-knockout format. Each team will play three league matches, with the top 75 progressing to the knockout stage.
In a historic first for the country, the use of mechanical triggers has been allowed in national competition. Traditionally played using finger release, Bhutanese archery is known for its precision and ritualistic elements. The inclusion of triggers — widely used in international competitions — is part of a broader effort to align the sport with global standards.
“Currently, our national style of play isn’t fully aligned with international formats,” said Pema Tenzin, General Secretary of the Bhutan Archery Federation. “By introducing mechanical releases, sights, and other equipment, we’re preparing our athletes for regional and Olympic-level competition.”
Each five-member team is permitted to field up to two archers using triggers. This development has already received praise from participants, many of whom see it as a gateway to higher accuracy and performance.
“The consistency with trigger use is noticeable,” said Tshetum Gaytshey, a participant. “It’s a big change, but a necessary one if we’re to compete internationally.”
Rinzin Dorji, another competitor, echoed the sentiment, noting that using a trigger “makes it easier to pull the bow and aim with precision.” For archers like Sherub Zam, the mechanical release brings a welcome shift. “When I use a trigger, my shots land more consistently. It’s a personal preference, but I find it much more reliable than fingers.”
The championship also celebrates inclusivity. For the first time, mixed-gender teams are welcome, and in today’s opening match, the lone women’s team impressed by finishing joint second in their group against two all-male teams.
To ensure competitive balance, tournament rules limit each team to only one seeded player. From 2026 onward, these seedings will be determined by performance in the current championship — a move aimed at nurturing long-term talent development.
Organised by the Bhutan Archery Federation in collaboration with the Bhutan Olympic Committee and the Bhutan Indigenous Games and Sports Association, the tournament reflects a vision that respects the past while embracing the future.
The league round will continue through the end of July, with four matches scheduled daily. The event not only showcases Bhutan’s sporting spirit but also symbolises a cultural shift — one that keeps tradition alive while empowering a new generation of archers to aim for the world stage.
