USA’s youngest fencers to compete at the Oregon Convention Center

Jenna Deml
·1 min read

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Some of the youngest fencers in the United States are gathering to compete throughout the weekend at USA Fencing’s March North American Cup.

Running March 1 to March 4, the competition, held at the Oregon Convention Center, will feature nearly 2,300 fencers from 24 different states. Plus, spectators can come watch the events for free.

“It’s impressive and you’ll see high-level fencing talents,” said Tara DelaRosa, Executive Director of Oregon Fencing Alliance (OFA). “And it’d be really fun I think, for families to come out and see a beginner and someone that’s all the way up at the cadet level [most advanced for competitors under 18] all at one place in one weekend.”

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Oregon is represented by 115 athletes, with 64 of those fencers from Portland, according to OFA.

Additionally, Portland is the last stop on the national calendar for these fencers as they compete to qualify for the 2024 National Championships in Ohio. This could bring them one step closer to the Olympic trials.

“If history is any indication, at least one of the fencers competing in Portland — and probably many more — will go on to represent Team USA at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles,” added Phil Andrews, CEO of USA Fencing. “That journey begins now, making this a unique chance to witness future fencing stars today.”

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