𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐢𝐦 𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐣𝐢 𝐓𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐠

Nim Dorji Tamang, a passionate golfer from Bhutan, has been dedicated to the sport since childhood, learning by carrying bags for experienced players. He officially joined the Bhutan National Golf Team in 2018, achieving a historic international victory in Bangladesh. Despite challenges like limited resources in Bhutan, he remains committed to growing the sport. Motivated by his parents and inspired by Tiger Woods, Nim trains rigorously every day. He believes in the power of dedication and hard work. Though he enjoys cooking, golf remains his priority. Nim advocates for more government support in sports and encourages aspiring golfers to never give up.

Q. How many years have you been playing golf?
A. I developed an interest in golf from a very young age. Since 1999, I have been closely associated with the sport, watching and learning from experienced players. My parents were also involved in golf, and I used to carry the bags of distinguished golfers, which gave me first-hand exposure to the game. This experience helped me understand the nuances of golf and fuelled my passion. It was through these moments that I slowly started learning, observing techniques, and practicing on my own whenever I got the chance. After completing my Class 12, I officially became part of the Bhutan National Golf Team in 2018. From that point on, I have dedicated myself to the sport, representing my country in various competitions, training rigorously, and striving for excellence in every game I play. The journey has been filled with both challenges and triumphs, but my love for the sport keeps me pushing forward.

Q. You recently won an international golf tournament in Bangladesh. How did you feel after your victory?
A. Winning the championship in Bangladesh was an unforgettable experience. It was the first-ever international golf trophy I had won, making it a historic achievement not just for me but also for Bhutanese golf. The tournament spanned four days, and the competition was intense. For the first three days, I couldn’t secure a win, struggling to keep up with my competitors and feeling the pressure of the international stage. However, I knew I had to stay focused, and on the final day, I managed to surpass everyone with determination and skill. The moment of victory was surreal, filling me with immense pride, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose. This win has further fueled my ambition to work harder and achieve greater milestones in my golfing career. It also reinforced my belief that perseverance and dedication can lead to great accomplishments, no matter how tough the journey may seem.

Q. What are some challenges you face as a golfer?
A. Golf in Bhutan is not as popular as other sports, and that presents several challenges. One of the major difficulties is the lack of awareness about the game among the general public. Since very few people play or follow golf, there is limited support and sponsorship available. Financial backing is crucial for training, travel, and participation in international tournaments, and without it, players face significant hurdles in their careers. Additionally, proper training facilities and dedicated golf courses are scarce, making it difficult for players to practice consistently. The limited infrastructure means we often have to find alternative ways to train and improve our skills. Despite these challenges, my passion for the sport keeps me going. I have been competing professionally since 2018, and through perseverance, I continue to overcome obstacles, striving to put Bhutan on the global golf map. It is my dream to see golf gain more recognition in Bhutan and for future generations to have better opportunities in the sport.

Q. How do your parents support your golf journey?
A. My parents have been my biggest pillars of strength throughout my golfing career. They have always supported me mentally and emotionally, encouraging me to pursue my passion despite the challenges. Although they couldn’t provide financial assistance, their unwavering belief in my abilities has been invaluable. Their encouragement gave me the strength to keep moving forward, even when the odds seemed stacked against me. They always reminded me that success is not just about winning trophies but about improving every day and staying committed to my goals. Their support has given me the confidence to keep pushing forward, and I am incredibly grateful for the role they have played in shaping my journey as a golfer. Their belief in me continues to drive me towards greater heights, and I hope to make them proud with every game I play.

Q. How do you prepare for a golf tournament?
A. Preparation is the key to success in any sport, and golf is no exception. I follow a strict training regimen to stay in peak form. My daily routine starts early in the morning with rigorous practice sessions. By 7 AM, I begin my training, focusing on refining my technique, improving my swings, and enhancing my overall performance. After training, I attend to my professional duties from 11 AM onward. This disciplined approach ensures that I remain consistent and competitive in the game. Apart from physical practice, I also work on my mental strength, as golf requires immense concentration and strategic thinking. I also analyse my past games, watching recordings to identify areas of improvement. Before a major tournament, I increase my practice intensity, ensuring that I am both physically and mentally prepared to face any challenge. My training includes fitness exercises, endurance-building routines, and targeted drills to refine my shots. This comprehensive preparation ensures that I am always ready to give my best performance on the course.

Q. Who is your role model in golf?
A. Ever since I was a child, I have been inspired by Tiger Woods. When I first started playing golf, foreign coaches used to train us, and they introduced us to legendary players. Watching Tiger Woods play and dominate the sport ignited a deep admiration within me. His dedication, perseverance, and extraordinary skills have influenced my approach to the game. His ability to overcome setbacks and still remain one of the greatest golfers of all time is something that truly inspires me. I aspire to emulate his discipline and determination, constantly pushing my limits to achieve greatness in golf. His story reminds me that with the right mindset and hard work, anything is possible.

Q. When did you realize that golf was your true passion?
A. My love for golf started at a very young age when I used to carry the bags of other players. As a child, I watched professional golfers play and was fascinated by the precision and skill involved in the sport. Many of these players would give me small amounts of money, which I would use to practice golf. Over time, I realized that my passion for the game was growing stronger. The more I played, the deeper my interest became. Eventually, I knew that golf was not just a hobby but a lifelong pursuit that I wanted to dedicate myself to.

Q. Apart from golf, do you have any other interests?
A. Yes, besides golf, I have a keen interest in cooking. After completing Class 12, I briefly worked in the culinary field, where I explored my passion for preparing delicious meals. Cooking has always been an enjoyable activity for me, allowing me to experiment with flavours and create unique dishes. However, if I had to choose between the two, golf would always be my priority. The thrill of the game, the sense of accomplishment, and the opportunities it provides outweigh my interest in cooking. Golf is where my heart truly belongs.

Message:

“Never give up on your dreams. If you are passionate about something, follow it wholeheartedly. Success comes to those who are dedicated and willing to put in the effort. Stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself!”