Hong Kong China Leads Wheelchair Fencing Championships

Athletes from Hong Kong, China are leading the way after striking performances at the 2010 International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Association (IWAS) Wheelchair Fencing World Championships in Paris, France.

The team took first in the overall ranking for the Women’s Foil team, after beating Hungary 45:28. Following Hungary were Germany, Belarus, Thailand and Ukraine.

The Women’s Epee team also took first, winning 45:23 against Poland. Following Poland in the rankings were Ukraine, Thailand, Hungary and Germany.

The men from Hong Kong, China also proved their skills in competition, taking second to France in the Sabre event. Following Hong Kong, China were Greece, Russia, Poland, USA and Germany.

The 2010 Wheelchair Fencing World Championships are taking place in Paris, France at the same time as the able-bodied Fencing World Championships through 13 November.

From a spectator's point of view, the most striking feature of Wheelchair Fencing is the fact that athletes compete in wheelchairs that are fastened to the floor. However, these chairs allow the fencers freedom of movement in the upper body only and the activity is as fast-paced as in Fencing competitions for able-bodied.

Men and women with an amputation, spinal injury or cerebral palsy are eligible to compete in events including Foil, Epée (men and women) and Sabre (men). The official governing body is the IWAS.