Ugyen Sonam Choden Expands Her Sporting Journey from Para-Athletics to Para-Badminton
A promising young para-athlete from Yangchen Gatshel Middle Secondary School is exploring new opportunities in sport, marking an encouraging step towards greater inclusion and diversity in Bhutanese para-sport. Ugyen Sonam Choden, a student of Yangchen Gatshel Middle Secondary School, is taking an exciting new step in her sporting journey by venturing into para-badminton while continuing her involvement in para-athletics.
Her introduction to para-badminton follows a talent identification initiative by Ran Maya of the Bhutan Badminton Federation, who recognised her potential to explore another sporting discipline. Following this initiative, Ugyen Sonam Choden has begun para-badminton training, opening up new possibilities for her development as a young athlete.
This marks a notable milestone in Bhutanese para-sport, as Ugyen Sonam Choden becomes the first Bhutanese para-athlete to participate in two different sporting disciplines: para-athletics and para-badminton. Her journey highlights the importance of talent identification and collaboration among sporting organisations in creating more opportunities for persons with disabilities. Such initiatives allow young athletes to discover their abilities, develop new skills and explore different sporting disciplines, broadening their participation in sport.
Balancing academic responsibilities with sporting commitments requires dedication, discipline and determination. As a student-athlete, Ugyen Sonam Choden’s growing involvement in two disciplines demonstrates how the right support and opportunities can enable young athletes to explore their potential beyond a single sport.
Her transition into para-badminton also reflects the value of collaboration between the Bhutan Paralympic Committee and the Bhutan Badminton Federation in strengthening pathways for inclusive sports development. Through continued cooperation, more individuals with disabilities can be identified, encouraged and supported to participate in organised sports.
As she continues to develop her skills in both disciplines, Ugyen Sonam Choden stands as an encouraging example of determination, adaptability and the possibilities that emerge when young athletes are given the opportunity to explore their potential.
From the athletics field to the badminton court, her journey represents another positive step towards expanding opportunities and strengthening the future of para-sport in Bhutan.
The 2026 Korean Paralympic Committee ( KPC) Youth Para Sport Camp is a training camp held by the KPC where they provide athletes with specialised training and guide them with national coaches or national para athletes. It aims to enhance athletes’ skills and knowledge in their respective para sports.
