Local fencer Nomvula Mahlodi Mbatha is content to coach
The Soweto resident makes the drive to Randburg every week to teach up-and-coming fencers how it is done.
Elite fencer and coach Nomvula Mahlodi Mbatha enjoys passing on her knowledge of the sport to those less experienced.
The Soweto resident has competed at many prestigious tournaments and even went to the qualifiers for the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics, but sadly did not qualify.
Mbatha is also not planning to compete in the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics because she would not be prepared enough for it if she did end up qualifying.
Instead, she is content to continue coaching at Tyshler Fencing School at the Randburg Sports Complex, as well as at Wits University.
Also read: Saxonwold resident loves to fence for his country
“I fence all three weapons but I prefer sabre,” she told Randburg Sun after conducting a lesson with the up-and-coming Simren Rampersadh.
Fencing uses three types of swords – the foil, sabre and épée.
With the foil and sabre, points are scored when a person hits their opponent on the upper body, although not the head for the foil.
When using the épée, a fencer can strike their opponent anywhere for a point.
“I won’t say I’m good at it [sabre] but I enjoy it because it’s fast. I like passing on my experience and my knowledge of what I’ve learnt and know.”
Mbatha added she would encourage others to take up the sport, especially those who preferred individual sports.
“It’s good for people who like to work alone, you take all the benefits of your work.”
However, having seen how fencing was supported overseas, Mbatha said the only real challenge local fencers faced was self-funding when it came to competing internationally.
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