Chongqing - The Chongqing International Expo Center Youth Sports Center is hosting the pre-training camp for the 2024 World Youth Fencing Championship and the Asian Youth Fencing Championship. This marks Chongqing's inaugural hosting of a national-level fencing training camp and the first one since the establishment of the Chinese Fencing Association's youth training base in Chongqing.

The Chongqing International Expo Center Youth Sports Center is hosting the pre-training camp for the 2024 World Youth Fencing Championship and the Asian Youth Fencing Championship. (Photo/Zhou Qing)

Stepping into the fencing hall feels like entering a world filled with swordsmanship and passion. The young fencers, adorned in black helmets and white armor, exhibit agile movement and graceful posture. With each sword swing and evasive maneuver, they radiate a determined spirit of perseverance. Under the guidance of national-level coaches, they are fully preparing for the upcoming 2024 Asian Youth Fencing Championship.

Guo Ying, head coach of the Sabre team and former national Sabre head coach, emphasized cultivating athletes' competitive abilities during this training camp. He stressed the importance of teaching them how to apply basic tactical moves in various situations that may arise during competitions.

The Chongqing International Expo Center Youth Sports Center is hosting the pre-training camp for the 2024 World Youth Fencing Championship and the Asian Youth Fencing Championship. (Photo/Zhou Qing)

Selected participants in this pre-training camp come from across the country, representing the highest skill levels in China's U14 and U16 fencing categories.

Thirteen-year-old Li Jia from Shanghai, a camp participant, shared her experience at the Chongqing International Expo Center Youth Sports Center. She highlighted the bright, spacious venue and modern fencing equipment: "It makes me feel refreshed and provides an excellent experience."

Another participant, 14-year-old Li Yanqi from Chongqing, said, "I'm honored to be part of the camp, surrounded by formidable competitors and professional training." Having attended training camps in Shanghai, Beijing, and Wuxi in the past, she appreciates the convenience of participating in the camp in her hometown.

The Chongqing International Expo Center Youth Sports Center has signed a 5-year agreement with the Chinese Fencing Association. It will be developed into the national youth team training base and host the training of the national U16 and U18 teams. Furthermore, Chongqing-based athletes will receive 6 to 10 wild card entries during each national youth training camp, providing them with opportunities to represent the country in international competitions.