First-ever Arm wrestling championship in Bhutan

46 contenders, one day, one moment, one winner

By Tashi Dendup

38-year-old Lhabchu from Chhukha won the first ever edition of Bhutan Arm-Wresting Championship which was held in Thimphu on Saturday. He beat 29 year-old Pema Wangdi from Mongar in the finals of the championship which saw 46 athletes competing for the title.

Both the winner and runners-up took home a two-wheeler each worth Nu 120,000 and Nu105,000 respectively.

Arm wrestling is a competition between two opponents facing each other with their bent elbows on a table and hands tight, and then attempting to force the opponent’s hand onto the table.

Famous comedians like Phurba Thinley and Gyem Tshering also competed in the championship which saw competitors with ages ranging from 21 to 54 years.

Others included the current Mr. Bhutan, Pema Thekchok, who took part in this competition to encourage sportsmanship, promote arm wrestling as a sport, and entertain the people.

The event was approved by Bhutan Olympic Committee (BOC) and organized by the Druk Superstar. The event was sponsored by TCD private limited and was held indoors with only invited guests and participants present at the event following strict COVID protocols.

For the organizers, it was a successful event and they now have plans to make it an annual event, with Women’s category also on the cards.