Thimphu, Bhutan, July 21, 2026: HRH Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, President of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, granted an audience to Kinley Phuntsho in recognition of his outstanding achievement in winning a bronze medal at the Asian U19 & U23 Boxing Championships held in Jakarta earlier this month.
Prince Jigyel warmly congratulated Kinley on this historic achievement and commended his dedication, perseverance and unwavering determination in representing Bhutan with distinction among Asia’s finest young boxers, and bringing great pride and honour to the nation.
The BOC President said Kinley’s success underlined the competitive pathway which has been put in place to generate sustainable athlete development – a progression from the Dzongkhags (administrative district events) to the National Games, then to the Asian Games and ultimately the Olympic Games.
The BOC President emphasised that this pathway is already unfolding with boxing leading the way.
Reflecting on the progress of boxing in Bhutan, Prince Jigyel acknowledged that the Bhutan Boxing Federation was one of the small federations when compared to those of larger nations with extensive resources and infrastructure. Despite these challenges, HRH said Bhutan continued to make meaningful progress through sustained commitment to athlete development.
Kinley’s bronze medal marks only the second time Bhutan has secured a medal at a major international boxing championship. His achievement reflects the collective effort of the athlete, his coaches, the Bhutan Boxing Federation, the Royal Bhutan Army and all those who contribute to the growth of boxing in the country.
The BOC extended its heartiest congratulations to Kinley on this remarkable achievement and wished him continued success in his sporting career.
