SPFC season starts with ranking competition

The competitive season at St Paul Fencing Club (SPFC) got under way recently with the 20th national ranking competition.

Three open events are organised during the season. Points won are taken into consideration for the final ranking together with the National Championship results and two best finishes overseas.

The competition drew a good number of participants. After the first round, the Foil tableau was led by Antoine Bonello (top seed), Alex Mallia and Pierre Bianchi, one of the club's most promising fencers.

Following a direct elimination victory over experienced John Delicata, Juan Formosa progressed to the next round and met Kenneth Spiteri in the semi-finals.

Formosa, second seed in Foil, eliminated Spiteri 15-13. He then met Bonello in the final and took advantage of the latter's lack of attacking initiative to win the contest 15-13.

In Epee, Stephan Swain showed early promise of success by ousting all his opponents in the first round. In the semi-final he eliminated Brian Spiteri 15-11 while Formosa edged to a narrow victory (15-14) over Marcus Muscat Baron.

In the final, Swain defended boldly with well-timed counter-attacks, eventually defeating Formosa 15-12.

Missing from the line-up was champion Norman Martinez. He is nursing a knee injury. Martinez should resume training in the coming weeks in view of the national championships in February.

He has an impeccable record of successes and was also national champion at both weapons last year. Also missing from the event was Gordon Calleja, one of the stalwarts of the SPFC men's team.

The SPFC teams are sponsored by Sigma Paints and Renault. Those interested in beginners' classes may contact the SPFC on 9947-8630 or www.maltafencing.com.