Top young fencers heading for Chichester's new event

SOME top young international fencers are in action in Chichester this weekend.
Fencing starlets from across Europe and the USA are Chichester-bound / Picture by Joash LewisFencing starlets from across Europe and the USA are Chichester-bound / Picture by Joash Lewis
Fencing starlets from across Europe and the USA are Chichester-bound / Picture by Joash Lewis

British Fencing, in conjunction with the European Fencing Confederation, the University of Chichester and Chichester District Council, will host the first six-weapon under-14 European circuit event.

A host of top-class international fencers have already entered the event at the university’s Sports Dome which promises to be a showcase for the sport.

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Competitors from countries including Romania, Estonia, Austria and the United States will be in attendance, as well as top fencers in the age group from Great Britain.

Spectators are welcome to come and watch the action on Saturday and Sunday.

In the spirit of providing a competitive environment for the athletes in a fun atmosphere for visitors, British Fencing will host free taster sessions in the Olympic sport.

Sessions will be available between 10am and 3pm both days. There will be mini-workshops for fencers and parents new to international fencing.

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The aim of the series is to give fencers a stepping-stone to cadet (under-17) international competition.

British Fencing is committed to seeking opportunities to bid for future junior and senior FIE and EFC events. In the interim it is important they demonstrate commitment to supporting international events, showcasing our officials and organisational capabilities, as well as providing opportunities for young athletes themselves.

Cllr Eileen Lintill, from Chichester District Council, said: “We are very pleased the EFC has chosen Chichester as the venue for this fantastic international event.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole community including schools, organisations and businesses to work together with the EFC. I hope this exciting event will help inspire our young people and help raise the profile of fencing as a sport.”

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Paul Wallace, active sports manager from the university, said; “We are delighted at the university to be hosting the event.

“We pride ourselves in sports science and performance across a variety of sports and by adding fencing to the institution we aim to help local fencing participation figures and increase the recognition of this Olympic sport.

“The event will be hosted mainly in the new Sports Dome and we look forward to welcoming fencing athletes from across Europe to Chichester.”

Katie Rhodes, British Fencing events manager, said: “This is an exciting opportunity and an honour to be involved in a new initiative for the EFC. The tournament will give young fencers the opportunity to compete against international opponents in a friendly and supportive environment. We are very grateful for the support of both the university and the council which will allow us to make this a standout event on this new circuit.”

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