POLOKWANE – At just 10 years old, Rookaya Khan is already making her mark in fencing as the youngest competitor in the girls’ division. She began fencing at the age of seven at the Sello Maduma Fencing Academy (SMFA). Rookaya said although her eldest sister tried the sport and did not enjoy it, she was immediately drawn to it. “I thought it would be a cool sport to try out. I really enjoyed it, so I signed up for it.”

Recalling her first experience, she added: “When I held the fencing ‘sword’ called an épée for the first time, I thought it was very heavy and wondered how I would manage to fence. But surprisingly it was pretty impressive and manageable.”

Learning the épée

Rookaya competes using the épée, the main weapon used at SMFA. She said it is easier to learn compared to foil and sabre because the rules are less complex.

One of the aspects she enjoys most is the possibility of a double touch. “With épée, you and your opponent can get points at the same time if you both hit each other. It is called a double touch,” she explained.

Breaking barriers in fencing

Although she does not have a specific favourite fencer, Rookaya enjoys watching other girls compete.

“I like to see other women fencing as I have noticed that fencing is mainly a male-dominated sport,” she said.

Balancing school, faith and sport

Balancing academics, religion and sport requires careful planning.

“My parents help me manage my time. I attend school and extra-mural activities, but I only attend half practice sessions on Tuesdays because I have madrassa/Islamic classes later in the afternoon. I also make time for homework,” she said.

Most competitions take place over weekends, but some require travel outside Limpopo, which occasionally affects school attendance. Rookaya said her school is supportive. “The teachers help me catch up when I return, as they know I am representing the province at competitions.”

Taking on older competitors

One of her biggest challenges has been competing against older and taller opponents. At a recent Interschool Team event at the Polokwane Sports Complex, she was the youngest participant in the girls’ u/13 category.

“The rest of the girls are 12 or 13 years old. I’m proud of that achievement and the challenge,” she said.

Inspiring others

Rookaya added that many of her classmates are unfamiliar with fencing, but she tries to explain the sport and encourages them to attend SMFA holiday camps and competitions.

Her mother, Razia Khan, praised her discipline and leadership.

“Her coaches always say she listens and applies what she is taught. She is also commended for reminding other fencers what to do during practice. I am very proud of her for taking on such a big challenge as the youngest female fencer in the club,” she said.