British Fencing Association confirm eight further spots for 2012 London Olympics – Fencing News
British Fencing Association has confirmed eight additional places for fencing, via the host nation qualification route. An Olympic qualifying standards panel made this decision on April 11, 2011. The BFA confirmed these exemptions on May 5.
According to rules and regulations set by the International Fencing Federation, a maximum sixteen fencers can compete by a national fencing association in Olympics. The host nation can avail eight more fencers in the competition. Great Britain will host the 2012 Olympics in London, which gives the team eight additional places by the International Olympic Committee.
Chief Executive of British Olympic Association, Andy Hunt encouraged the British Fencing team. He said that British fencers have had a huge impact due to their performance in the previous years, in fencing. The Chief also said that fencing at home would be beneficial for British fencers and they would be more confident with the support of the home crowd.
British fencing team has captured 13 medals in the World Cups, along with four medals in the European Fencing Championship.
Chief Executive of British Fencing, Pier Martin thanked the British Fencing Association and International Fencing Federation, for the additional spots. He said that it was incredible news that they have secured additional places for fencing. Martin, while speaking about his team said that it was the huge effort of all British fencers over the past years, which has enabled them to excel in the sport.
British fencing team is one of the upcoming teams in fencing and the sport is increasing in interest, among the nation’s community.
New performance manager of British Fencing, Alex Newton is working hard for enhancing fencing capabilities among the British team. Newton, said, “My long-term goals are to move the sport to a position where it can consistently win medals on the world stage”.
Olympic Games will be beneficial for British fencing, as the opportunity would give the fencers a chance to claim more medals for their nation and will also be used as a platform for future games.
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