JEDDAH, 17 October 2006 — Encouraged by the success of the first summer fencing course, the Masters Academy for fencing and martial arts is now preparing for its second course scheduled Nov. 4 to 29 at its facility on Prince Sultan ibn Salman Street north of Jeddah International Convention Center.
The course aims is to educate the Saudi public on the sport of fencing through the youth. It is open to enrollees from the age of 8 to 14 who will be taught to skills in the fencing disciplines of sabre, epee and Foil.
Saudi fencing coach Omar Abu Rumayah, who is in charge of the course, told Arab News the academy was established a year ago in Jeddah. “It is the only one that is accredited by the International Fencing Federation and is fully equipped with all the electronics and fencing tools these fencers would need,” he said.
The course is intensive and the first week will be devoted on orientation and the second on fencing, third on epee and the fourth on sabre. Athletes are awarded certificates at the end of the course and only the ones with dedication and determination are chosen to complete the course.
He added, “What we are trying to do here is spread this sport and train the fencers so they can give their best and present their country afterwards with a honorable image at the Arabian and international championship.”
Some of the qualities that fencing helps develop in the youtha, according to Abu Rumayah, are stamina, quick responses, brilliance, sharpness, calmness, patience, cleverness, flexibility, and persistence. In addition, fencers enjoy a healthy and well-shaped straight body for as long as they live.
The first summer fencing course picked five fencers to complete their training with the academy along with the 25 others being maintained by the academy.
Those who are interested are encouraged to visit the website at arab-fencing.com or call 607-4982 for more information.
