Para-athletes Honoured at Bhutan's Paralympic Fest

The 7th Paralympic Festival in Bhutan was marked by moments of pride and inspiration as two distinguished para-athletes were recognized for their remarkable achievements. 🎖️✨ Her Royal Highness Princess Eeuphelma Choden Wangchuck was at the forefront, celebrating the talents of these athletes, underscoring the importance of inclusion and perseverance in sports.

Celebration of Excellence 🎉

Held at the Gesarling Central School, the festival brought together over a thousand attendees, including students, teachers, parents, and community members. The theme for the event, “We See Ability”, resonated through various activities, emphasizing the potential and capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

Recognizing Para-athletic Talent

Among those honoured was Cheyang Kuenchap, a promising para-badminton player and student at Gesarling Central School. Cheyang's bronze medal victory at the 2025 Asian Youth Para Games in Dubai was celebrated as a milestone in Bhutanese para-sports. Her determination to aim for higher accolades in upcoming events was encouraged by the royal recognition.

Chimi Dema, a final-year student at Royal Thimphu College, was another star of the festival. Her achievement of winning bronze in the women’s shot put mixed classification at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Delhi further highlighted the burgeoning talent within Bhutan. Chimi expressed gratitude for the recognition and her commitment to continue advocating for para-sports even beyond her competitive years.

The Role of Support and Community

The festival did not just celebrate the athletes but also acknowledged the unwavering support of coaches and institutions like Gesarling Central School. The Bhutan Paralympic Committee presented appreciation awards, reinforcing the collaborative effort needed to foster an inclusive sporting environment.

Expanding the Paralympic Movement in Bhutan

Since its inception in 2019, the Paralympic Festival has aimed to promote the involvement of persons with disabilities in sports. It has successfully raised awareness about the Paralympic Movement in Bhutan, encouraging more individuals to participate in para-sports. The event featured diverse sports such as blind football, boccia, wheelchair basketball, and para-archery, showcasing the wide range of opportunities available for para-athletes.

The festival's cultural performances added a vibrant touch, fostering unity and community spirit. The presence of Her Royal Highness further amplified the festival's impact, as she inaugurated sports stations and engaged with attendees, offering tokha to students and the public.

Looking Ahead: A Future of Inclusion and Achievement

The recognition of Cheyang and Chimi marks a significant step in Bhutan's journey towards inclusivity in sports. Their stories inspire a new generation of athletes to push boundaries and pursue excellence. As Bhutan continues to nurture para-athletic talent, the nation sets a precedent for inclusivity and empowerment in sports.

In conclusion, the 7th Paralympic Festival was not only a celebration of achievements but also a testament to the spirit of perseverance and community support. As we look forward to future events, the festival reminds us of the power of sports to transcend limitations and highlight the abilities inherent in all individuals.