The Trailblazer of Bhutanese Shooting, Inspiring Women to Run and Aim Higher
At 39 years old, Kunzang Choden, a coach at the Bhutan Shooting Federation, stands as an inspiring figure in Bhutan’s sports history. She holds the honor of being the first Bhutanese athlete to represent the country in shooting at the Olympics—a groundbreaking achievement that has paved the way for future generations, especially women.
Kunzang’s journey to the Olympics began with an unexpected twist. After completing class 10 in 2002 in Thimphu, her life took a turn in 2003 when she saw an advertisement for a vacancy at the Bhutan Shooting Federation. Thinking it was archery, Bhutan’s national sport, she eagerly signed up. But soon she realized that it was a shooting competition involving rifles, not bows and arrows.
“I thought it was archery, but when I got there, I discovered the world of shooting with rifles. It was accidental, but I fell in love with the sport immediately,” she recalls. What’s remarkable is that her passion for the sport kept her going, despite the lack of facilites in those days. Her dedication was fueled purely by love for the sport, and soon, that commitment began to pay off.
Three years into her journey, Kunzang got her first international opportunity. In 2007, she traveled to Germany for a month-long training program. Shortly after, she represented Bhutan at the SAARC Games in Bangladesh and went on to compete in world championships, including three stints in Kuwait.
But the real surprise came in 2010, when Kunzang received an unexpected message—she had been awarded a quota to participate in the 2012 London Olympics. “I was stunned. I had no expectations, no hopes for something this big. When the news came, I was in shock,” she said, reflecting on the moment.
The journey to the Olympics required rigorous preparation. Kunzang recalls her intense training sessions, which included running 15 to 16 laps around Changlimithang Stadium. She emphasizes that breathing control is critical in shooting, and running helped her build the stamina and focus she needed to excel in the sport. “Running was essential for me—not just for fitness, but to sharpen my mind and control my breathing. In shooting, every breath counts. Running helped me focus, calm myself, and push through tough training sessions.”
Her hard work paid off when she arrived at the Olympics and broke her own personal record, scoring 382 points out of 400. Although she didn’t win a medal, she proudly earned the title of “Olympian” and forever etched her name in Bhutanese sports history.
After competing until 2013, Kunzang transitioned to coaching in 2014, dedicating herself to nurturing the next generation of shooters in Bhutan. As a coach, she faced a challenge: encouraging more women to participate in what many perceived as a “man’s game.” But Kunzang has a message for them: “Shooting is not just for men. Women are just as capable. It’s a sport of discipline, focus, and strength. I started with just four women, and now, there are around 20 women actively participating. My goal is to see that number grow.”
Kunzang now spends her days at the shooting range in Changlimithang, guiding 10 young athletes who practice with her after school. She has also been a driving force behind awareness programs aimed at encouraging women to take up the sport.
But her love for physical activity doesn’t end at shooting. Kunzang is an avid hiker, exploring Bhutan’s beautiful landscapes every week. She attributes her physical and mental resilience to her hiking and running habits. “Running and hiking have completely transformed my life. They’ve given me mental clarity, physical strength, and a sense of freedom that I carry into everything I do. I encourage everyone, especially women, to take up running. It’s more than just exercise—it’s a way to build discipline and focus in life.”
Her journey from an accidental encounter with shooting to becoming Bhutan’s first Olympic shooter is a story of persistence, passion, and resilience. Kunzang’s message to aspiring athletes, especially women, is clear: “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or cannot do. Whether it’s running, shooting, or any other challenge, go for it with everything you’ve got. And remember, the path to greatness starts with one small step—just like in running.”
Today, Kunzang continues to inspire young women across Bhutan to break barriers, pursue their passions, and always run toward their dreams.
