Patna: For the first time, Bihar is set to host the four-day 32nd National Junior Fencing Championship 2024-25, kicking off on Monday at the Patliputra Sport Complex here.
The event, jointly organized by the Bihar State Sports Authority (BSSA) and Bihar Fencing Association under the aegis of the Fencing Association of India, will see participation of over 900 fencers from across the country.
The under-20 fencers—both boys and girls—from 29 states and Union Territories will compete for the coveted trophy, said an official.
"Sports minister Surendra Mehta will inaugurate the championship," said BSSA director general Ravindra Sankaran, adding, "It is a matter of pride for the state that, for the first time, any national-level fencing event is being organized here."
Sankaran said the fencing competition would leave a positive impact on the sportspersons and youths of Bihar. "Fencing is increasingly becoming popular among the youths of the state. Akash Kumar, hailing from our state, has already made the country proud by winning medals in international-level events," he said.
BSSA director Ravindra Nath Choudhary said the state govt has made proper arrangements for boarding, food, and transportation of the players and their trainers. "All the fencers and trainers will put up at the O P Shah community hall in Patna City during the event, and their safety and other requirements have been adequately taken care of during their stay," he said.