Jab your way down to fencing comp
Don't miss out on the action at the KZN Amateur Fencing Association's first competition for 2014.
THE KZN Amateur Fencing Association will host its first competition for the year on Saturday 22 February at the Old Mutual Hall at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) from 11.30am.
According to Louise Lombard, chairman of the KZN Amateur Fencing Association, this competition is the first of a series of events for the province. “Under the auspices of the two clubs in Durban, UKZN and Hillcrest, we will be hosting at least four competitions this year. This is all part of building a solid ranking system for the province so that we can send our best team to the National Fencing Championships in June,” said Louise.
“Local competition experience is invaluable to fencers, especially our youngsters, as it gives a real taste of what the sport is all about. Competitions are also the best way to prepare for the highly competitive national circuit which includes the KZN Open in September.”
The local fencing scene has been given a significant boost since the arrival of the internationally acclaimed fencing coach, Aydar Zabbarov. Coaching at both clubs, Aydar has more than 30 years of experience in fencing at an international level and was champion of Russia in 1985 and 1987 and was the champion of the USSR Team in 1987. He was also awarded the prestigious title Master of Sport of the USSR.
“KZN Fencing is currently on a drive to revive the sport in the province and introduce a whole new generation to fencing,” said Louise. “We have a wide variety of students across all age groups and it’s exciting to see the enthusiasm for the sport among our newcomers. It’s going to be interesting to see how we compete at a national level.”
This is an individual ranking event in foil, epee and sabre and, depending on numbers, there will be three age categories: cadet, junior and senior for both men and women. The competition is open to all fencers in KZN and the entry fee is R70. To compete in the event, all fencers must be registered with the KZN Amateur Fencing Association and it will be possible to register on the morning at a cost of R200 per fencer. Spectators are welcome. Visit www.fencingkzn.co.za.
