Sangay and Kinzang Lhamo Shine at the 10th Bhutan International Marathon

The 10th Bhutan International Marathon, held on March 2 in Punakha, saw a remarkable performance from the top-three finishers of the 2022 Snowman Race. Sangay and Kinzang Lhamo, both distinguished members of the Royal Bhutan Army, emerged victorious in their respective categories, solidifying their status as leading runners in the country.

Sangay, 31, from Zhemgang, claimed first place in the men’s 42-km race, finishing in an impressive time of 2 hours and 48 minutes. This was his fifth attempt at the marathon, marking a significant personal achievement. Gawa Zangpo, the male category winner of the previous year’s Snowman Race, secured second place just 21 seconds behind Sangay, while Tashi Norbu followed closely in third, crossing the finish line in 2 hours and 50 minutes.

In the women’s category, Kinzang Lhamo, 25, from Trashingang, made history by winning her second consecutive title. She completed the 42-km race in 3 hours and 26 minutes, outpacing her closest competitor, Goma Pradhan, by just five minutes. Kinzang, who finished second in the 2022 Snowman Race, expressed her determination to beat her own record this year and succeeded, finishing 17 minutes faster than in her previous race. She attributed her success to diligent training and a competitive spirit, emphasizing her commitment to continuing her participation in future marathons.

Kinzang-Lhamo

In the 21-km female category, Yeshi Dem emerged victorious with a time of 1 hour and 38 minutes. Pem Zam followed 10 minutes later, while Indra Kammer secured third place, finishing 13 minutes behind Yeshi. In the men’s 21-km race, Kabji Tshering took first place in 1 hour and 16 minutes, with Thinley Lhendup finishing five minutes later and Kinley Gyeltshen taking third, just two seconds behind Thinley.

This year’s marathon, organized by the Bhutan Olympic Committee, saw a notable increase in participation, with 232 runners, including 60 international competitors—doubling the number from the previous year. The winners in the 42-km category received cash prizes of Nu 40,000, Nu 30,000, and Nu 20,000 for first, second, and third places, respectively, while the top runners in the 21-km category received prizes of Nu 20,000, Nu 15,000, and Nu 10,000.

The Bhutan International Marathon not only promotes healthy living through running but also fosters camaraderie and relationships with international participants, making it a celebrated event in Bhutan’s sporting calendar.

The Bhutan International Marathon returns on 1st March 2025—are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

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