Columbus hosts world's largest fencing tournament; more than 4,300 athletes expected

6/22/2014
ASSOCIATED PRESS

COLUMBUS — More than 4,300 athletes are converging on Columbus this month for the world’s largest fencing tournament.

Fencers ranging in age from 8 to 85 are expected this year for the USA Fencing 2014 National Championships & July North American Cup. The event begins today and runs through July 3 at the Columbus Convention Center.

Organizers say the event has added 1,500 participants this year.

Fencers will be vying for the national championship and July North American Cup, including youths, seniors, individuals and more than 300 teams competing in three weapons categories — epee, foil and saber.

Contestants include eight members of the 2012 Olympic Team.

The public can attend and watch for free.