Kinley Dem Takes Aim: Ready for the WSPS World Cup
Kinley Dem comes from Kazhi, Wangdue Phodrang. She grew up learning traditional scripts under the guidance of her grandfather.
Like any other child, she enjoyed a normal childhood until an illness at the age of twelve changed the course of her life. Unable to continue formal education, she stayed at home for several years until the establishment of the Bhutan Paralympic Committee in 2018 opened new doors of opportunity.
Her interest in sports, particularly in air rifle shooting, began to take shape with the encouragement from her sister, Dawa Lham, a coach at the Bhutan Shooting Federation. Watching national shooters train sparked her curiosity and determination to step into the sport herself.
Shortly after joining as a para-shooting athlete, Kinley Dem made her international debut at the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta. With commitment and hard-work she began to progress. She went on to represent Bhutan in multiple international competitions. One of the proudest moments of her career came at the 2024 Summer Paralympic Games in Paris, France, where she ranked among the top ten in the qualification round with a score of 616.8, narrowly missing a place in the finals.
Since then, Kinley has continued to train with great dedication, achieving a personal best score of 623 during practice. She now sets her sights on the WSPS World Cup, scheduled to take place in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, from 25th October to 5th November 2025.
As part of her preparation, a simulation program was conducted to help her gain real-time competition experience and boost the confidence ahead of the upcoming event as she competed with other para-athletes and national shooting athletes at 10M indoor shooting range.
On 26th September 2025, a simulation program was conducted at the 10M Indoor Shooting Range, Changlimithang National Stadium.
Ms. Kinley Dem competed alongside seven other athletes, including Mr. Rinzin Norbu, a male para-shooter, and Ms. Lenchu Kunzang, one of Bhutan’s top national shooting athletes who represented the country at the 2016 Rio Summer Olympic Games.
A simulation program helps enhance athletes’ performance by creating a real-time competition environment, allowing them to cope with stress and pressure. Moreover, it serves as an excellent platform to build confidence and prepare mentally for actual competitions.
The program began with athletes lining up and practicing sighting and fixing the position but the he program was intense as Kinley Dem and other athletes went neck and neck in their efforts to qualify for the finals. Spectators were captivated by the talent, determination, and skill displayed by the athletes and their cheers and encouragement energized the atmosphere.
During the heated qualification round, Kinley Dem gave tough competition to Ms. Lenchu Kunzang. Mr. Rinzin Norbu also showcased his strong will and qualified for the next round along with other national shooting athletes.
As the final round progressed, the competition grew tougher. The limited time to set positions, focus, and take a precise shot, combined with the quiet whispers from the audience, added to the tension. Yet, the athletes maintained their composure, hands steady and eyes locked on their targets.
After several rounds, Mr. Rinzin Norbu secured fourth place, while Ms. Tshering Choden took the lead. The final three were dominated by women, strong and focused athletes who demonstrated remarkable grit and determination as they competed in the simulation program, treating it as their medal-winning event. In a closely contested finish, Kinley Dem and Lenchu Kunzang battled for the top position. Despite immense effort and pressure, Kinley Dem concluded the competition with an impressive second-place finish with the final score of 245.2
Athletes representing their dedication and determination in the sport: Lunch Kunzang Standing in the midddle, Kinley Dem on the left and Tshering Choden on the right.
The athletes poured their hearts into every shot, competing as if each moment could win them a medal. The disbelief, the moments of frustration, the quiet determination, and the bright smiles were all real, raw, and heartfelt. Every emotion told the story of their effort, courage, and resilience.
The WSPS World Cup is more than just a competition, it is a gateway to dreams. It is a crucial stepping stone toward the Paralympic Games and World Championships, where every performance can shape an athlete’s future. Excelling here doesn’t just open doors; it also sets the standard for national federations to recognize and support their most deserving athletes.
With the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles just 2 years and 9 months away, the anticipation is electric. If Kinley earns her spot on that grand stage, it would not only be a personal triumph but also a moment of profound pride for the entire nation—a celebration of determination, talent, and unwavering spirit.
Para-sports open doors for every individual living with an impairment, giving them the chance to dream, compete, and achieve just like anyone else. From shooting and swimming to athletics, archery, and beyond, there is a world of opportunity waiting for those willing to step forward. These athletes remind us that passion, determination, and perseverance can take you far beyond what you ever imagined. A disability does not define your limits—it challenges you to break them.
“I was shy in the beginning,” Kinley Dem recalls, “but after joining para-sports it completely changed me. It helped me explore my potential, and competing in international tournaments gave me confidence I never knew I had. I learned that the only limits that exist are the ones you place on yourself.”
One inspiring story is that of Phutsho Wangdi, a nationally known artist whose melodious voice has captured the hearts of countless people across the nation. But Phutsho did not stop at music. He took a brave step into the world of para-sports, joining the Bhutan Para-Shooting Team. By participating in the program, he not only challenged himself but also inspired others to believe in the power of courage and determination. His journey reminds us that growth comes when we dare to step outside our comfort zones and push beyond our perceived boundaries.
Para-sports are more than competitions—they are platforms for resilience, self-discovery, and transformation. Every athlete’s journey is a story of courage, every shot fired shows passion and perseverance. They show us that while challenges may come, the human spirit has the power to rise, inspire, and redefine what is possible.
Paralympic sports have opened doors of opportunity for many individuals living with impairments, and the story of Kinley Dem is one such inspiring example. She has participated in the Changwon 2025 WSPS World Cup, marking her first appearance at a WSPS World Cup event and it will be second appearance in the upcoming WSPS World Cup in Al Ain, U.A.E
Dedicated , Kinley has been training rigorously in preparation for the competition. On 10th October, a final simulation program was conducted following a schedule similar to the event held earlier.
During the session, Kinley Dem secured second place after a close contest with Lenchu Dem, while Phuntsho Wangdi finished in third place.
Athletes can train endlessly and give their very best, but without support, their journey can feel lonely and incomplete. From the very first day to the final competition, the presence of the incredible supporters made all the difference. Their cheers, smiles, and words of encouragement pushed the athletes to give their all and reminded them that with love and support, anything is truly possible.
What made it even more special was seeing supporters from all corners of the sporting field come together — players from the women’s national team, fellow para-athletes, national athletes, and coaches from different sports federations. Their shared energy and genuine care filled the arena with warmth and unity, reminding everyone that sport is not just about competition, but about community and connection.
