Strength-lifter Pema Dorjee powers his way into Team India

Pema Dorjee Bhutia has earned a place in the Indian Strength Lifting team. His consistently outstanding performance at national championships earned him a call for the national team. This is a remarkable feat given that it has been barely two years that Strength Lifting was introduced in the state. Expectedly then, he is the first Sikkimese to be the part of Indian Strength Lifting team.   
Pema Dorjee Bhutia has left to represent the country in the 3rd edition of the Senior, Masters [Men & Women] International Strength Lifting Inclined Bench Press Championship 2015 to be held from 21 to 24 February at Manama in Bahrain.
The 46-year-old Sikkimese lifter is representing India in the Masters’ category [85 kg].
A 30-member team from India is participating in this championship being organized by the Asian Strength Lifting Federation. Pema Dorjee left for Kolkata on 16 February to join other members Team India and flew out to Bahrain on 18 February.
Needles to add, the young strength-lifting fraternity in the State is thrilled with the development, pointing out that one of its members has broken into the national team even before the association turned two in Sikkim. Strength Lifting was introduced to the state in March 2013.
Before leaving for the championship, Mr. Bhutia exuded confidence, announcing that he will win a medal for the country in his international level competitive debut. He has undergone rigorous training of up to five hours every day at the White Hall gym.
“It is a matter of great honour for me to find a place in India team and I have prepared myself with rigorous training; now I am hopeful of winning a medal for India,” Mr Bhutia shared.
So far, he has bagged 5 national gold medals. He also lifted the Champion of Champions title in the Master’s category last year, and this year he emerged the Best player of the tournament. He has been working on promotion and development of strength lifting in the state.
Mr. Bhutia expressed gratitude towards the Commandant and all officers and personnel of Sikkim Armed Police for their constant support. He is a Head Constable in Sikkim Armed Police. He is also serving as the trainer at the SAP Gym at Pangthang. He also thanked the Sikkim Strength Lifting Association ad-hoc committee for its support to all lifters of the state.
On behalf of all strength lifting fraternity, Sikkim Strength Lifting Association publicity secretary, Rinzing Wangyal Chopel, expressed gratitude towards the Chief Minister for his financial support towards sending Mr Bhutia to this championship. He also thanked Suresh Sarda and other well wishers for their support to the strength lifting.
[SAGAR CHHETRI]