“My mother was chasing me with a stick because I had done something wrong. I don’t even remember what it was. I just remember running—running so fast that she gave up halfway. I stood there, breathless and surprised. That was the first time I thought, maybe I have something special.
I started running when I was very young. Most of the people I competed with were much older than me, but that never scared me. I didn’t think about medals or recognition. I just loved to run. My coach believed in me early on, and so did my parents and friends. On days when I doubted myself, they believed for me.
School was harder. My days began at 5 in the morning with training, followed by classes, and then training again in the evening. I was tired most of the time. Balancing studies and athletics felt overwhelming, and there were moments when I wondered if I could keep going. But quitting was never an option.
I never wanted to burden my parents. Whatever money I received from the DSA, I used carefully—to buy my own sports gear and sometimes small things for my siblings. Being able to help, even a little, mattered to me.
Running opened doors I never imagined. I earned a scholarship from the Bhutan Olympic Committee to study at Royal Thimphu College. I wasn’t the brightest student, but I understood the value of education. Even now, I train at 5 in the morning and attend classes by 9. It’s still tough, but I’ve learned how to manage.
In 2024, I represented Bhutan at the Asian Athletics Championships in South Korea. Standing there, wearing my country’s name on my chest, felt unreal.
Looking back, everything feels worth it. I can study without worrying about money, support myself, and most importantly, not trouble my parents anymore. That, for me, is the greatest victory.”
Story written by our intern, Sanjog Mongar.
