Bhutan’s journey in the Rio Olympics has ended, but not without some good news.

Bhutanese shooter, Lenchu Kunzang, participated in the 10m air rifle event and emerged 45th out of 51 shooters. This is a commendable performance for someone who only began shooting professionally since 2013. She had to face those who have been shooting for several more years.

We can only expect that Lenchu Kunzang will get better.

Archer Karma also put up a most commendable performance.

The 229th ranked Karma was able to draw three of five rounds against a Russian archer ranked more than 200 places higher, and was perhaps, only a round away from pulling off what might have been the biggest upset of the games.

We couldn’t have asked for better representation from our two Olympians.

The efforts of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, the Bhutan Archery Foundation, and the Bhutan Shooting Federation, the coaches, and all those who have contributed to making this possible should to be acknowledged. We are confident that our performance on the international stage can only get better.

The success of archer Karma and shooter Lenchu, in addition to the various events organised by their respective federations, should attract more young people to the game. It is important that our young people are attracted to sports. The benefits to social life and health are obvious. They will be engaged in activities that will help them in life, not only during their youth, but also later when they are working and old.

For those who choose to stick with the sport and reach the international competition level, they will serve as ambassadors of the country and, more importantly, as role models for our young people at home.

What is important is that we know that with concerted effort and sincere investment, we can also shine on the world stage. Our federations should, therefore, invest in training and developing facilities that will encourage our young people to take part in the international games.

In the near future, we see them bring home gold and silver and making us all very proud.

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