SPORT OF THE MONTH – FENCING

Having been introduced and first practiced in Jordan by the Jordanian Armed Forces - the Arab Army, the Jordan Fencing Federation was officially established in 1983 to manage and develop the sport in the Kingdom.
Just a year after its formation, Ali Shehadeh represented Jordan at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, making it one of the first sports that Jordan took part in at an Olympic Games.
Since then, it has enjoyed a rich and successful history, winning countless medals at Arab and Asian level across all groups as well as hosting major international events.
One of the highlights came recently when Jordan won a pair of bronze medals at the Asian Championships, which took place in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent.
Dr. Iyad Al-Maghaira, Secretary of the Jordan Fencing Federation, stressed that the Federation strives to promote and develop the sport across the Kingdom by making it accessible to all.
Through the Jordan Fencing Academy, talented youngsters of both sexes are being developed to provide sustained success for Jordan at international events.
Dr. Al-Maghaira said: “Fencing is one of the oldest sports and was one of the first to be included on the Summer Olympic programme, and it hasn’t missed a Games since.
“At first, some might think that the sport of Fencing is dangerous because weapons are used. But, on the contrary, this sport is very safe and anyone can play from the age of seven.”
Fencing consists of three disciplines - Saber, Epee, and Foil. The Fencing court is made of a metal rug with a length of 14m x 1.5m.
Each match is judged by a referee with the help of an electric referee.