Fencers step up buildup in Asian Jrs

MANILA, Philippines - The Asian Juniors and Cadet Championships slated here next month will serve as the national fencers’ international exposure in their buildup for this year’s Asian Games.

Newly elected Philippine Fencing Association president Victor Africa yesterday said the twin tournaments, set March 4-14 at the Philsports in Pasig, will also be one of the bases for the selection of the RP team to the Asiad in November in Guangzhou, China.

“The Philippines is lucky for having been selected the venue of the twin competitions which is regarded as the future, not only the Philippine fencing but, likewise, that of Asia as the best fencers in the region aged 12-20 will be seeing action,” said Africa, who succeeded long-time head Celso Dayrit as PFA top man yesterday.

Dayrit, the former Philippine Olympic Committee president, stepped down as PFA president last year upon his election as head of the Fencing Confederation of Asia, one of two international posts he presently holds, the other being a member of the International Fencing Federation executive council.

More than 30 nations, according to Africa, have confirmed their participation in the Asian level competitions. 

The Philippines will be fielding in entries in both categories – cadet, open for competitors aged 12-17, and junior, for fencers aged 17-20.

“We cannot promise results for our fencers except that members of both teams in the cadet and junior levels are ready to compete,” he said.

Outstanding performers in the twin tilts will be joining national team mainstays Wally Mendoza (saber), Emerson Segui (foil) and Harlene Orendain (epee), who have been seeded to the Asiad squad.