Chichester to host Valerie Degorce International Youth Trophy this weekend

British Fencing, in conjunction with the European Fencing Confederation, Chichester University and Chichester City Council will host the first six-weapon under-14 European circuit event in West Sussex.

A host of top class international fencers have already entered the event which promises to make it a showcase for the sport. Competitors from countries including Romania, Estonia, Austria and the United States will be in attendance, as well as the top fencers in the age group from Great Britain. 

Spectators are welcomed to come and watch all of the action on Saturday and Sunday at the University of Chichester campus, College Lane, Chichester. PO19 6PE.

In the spirit of providing both a competitive environment for the athletes in a fun atmosphere for visitors, British Fencing will be host taster sessions in this Olympic sport for free.  Members of the public are welcome to attend, and the sessions will be available throughout the weekend between 10:00 – 15:00 each day.  There will also be mini-workshops for fencers and parents new to international fencing.

The aim of the series is to give fencers a stepping-stone to Cadet (under-17) international competition, following the success of events such as Challenge Wratislava and Challenge C.E.P. Marathon Fleuret.

British Fencing is committed to seeking opportunities to bid for future Junior and Senior FIE & EFC events.  In the interim it is important that we demonstrate commitment to supporting international events, showcasing our officials and organizational capabilities, as well as providing opportunities for young athletes themselves.

Councillor Eileen Lintill, from Chichester City Council, said; “We are very pleased that the European Fencing Confederation has chosen Chichester as the venue for this fantastic international event.  This is a wonderful opportunity for the whole community including schools, organisations and businesses to work together with the EFC.  I hope this exciting event will help inspire our young people and help raise the profile of fencing as a sport.”

Paul Wallace, Active Sports Manager from University of Chichester, said; “We are delighted at the University of Chichester to be hosting the British Round European Fencing Confederation under-14 Circuit.  At The University we pride ourselves in sports science & performance across a variety of sports and by adding fencing to the institution we aim to help local fencing participation figures and increase the recognition of this Olympic sport. The event will be hosted mainly in the brand new Sports Dome based on the Chichester Campus and we look forward to welcoming fencing athletes from across Europe to Chichester.”

Katie Rhodes, British Fencing Events Manager, said; “This is an exciting opportunity and an honour to be involved in a new initiative for the EFC.  The tournament will give young fencers the opportunity to compete against international opponents in a friendly and supportive environment.  We are very grateful for the support of both the University and the City Council which will allow us to make this a standout event on this new circuit”. 

If you are unable to attend the event in person you can follow the live results at our dedicated Engarde Portal. Please note that the first update for this competition will only become available on Friday. In the meantime, entry lists are available here.

For further information please contact Katie Rhodes.