POLOKWANE – Five fencers from Limpopo delivered outstanding performances at the Gauteng Fencing National Open Competition, earning medals and recognition.

The event saw top fencers from across the country compete to improve their rankings and secure spots in the national team.

The competition also served as a selection platform for the Junior and Cadet African Championship, scheduled to take place in Angola between February and March.

A total of 36 Limpopo fencers competed in various categories, with the u/20 participants achieving great results in their national rankings.

Sebastian Austin secured medals in both the u/20 men’s épée and foil events.

His current ranking of third in men’s épée guarantees him a spot in the national team for the Junior and Cadet African Championship.

Chairperson Renuka Ramroop highlighted Safiya Khan-Patel’s impressive return to competitive fencing, where she claimed silver in the u/20 women’s épée.

This achievement elevated her to fifth place nationally, securing her a reserve position in the national team.

Ramroop also commended Rahul van Manen, who excelled in the senior men’s category, winning silver in épée and bronze in foil.

These results put him in contention for the senior national team.

“After representing Limpopo and South Africa for six consecutive years at the Junior African Championships, we look forward to more excellent performances from Rahul as he transitions fully into the senior ranks,” said coach Joseph Maluleke.

He also noted Ramroop’s own success, as she brought home silver and bronze medals in the veterans épée and foil events.

“We are incredibly proud of our fencers, who continue to uphold Limpopo’s tradition of excellence and representation in national teams,” Ramroop remarked.