Lack of funds hinder fencing growth

Kabelo Boranabi | Tuesday November 14, 2017 15:31

 

Speaking to Mmegi Sport at the Gaborone Open tournament held over the weekend, Chape said they have been impressed with the skills shown by local fencers on the day, but funds once again have proven to be a stumbling block.

“In the overall, our fencers have been performing in a stunning way. We matched athletes from South Africa and Namibia closing them from any medals. In technical aspects, we have grown big ever since we trained coaches,” he said. “But we have been affected by lack of funds in terms of expanding since the equipment is very expensive. Fencing is growing in Botswana, but we need to get more sponsors. As of now, we are only relying on the grant we are given by government.”  

Chape, however, said the association is planning to undertake another outreach outside Gaborone as they continue to search for new talent. Mmegi Sport is informed that the BAFF receives an annual grant of around P150,000 from the Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC). 

The association currently has three internationally qualified coaches and umpires. Meanwhile on Saturday, Chape once again proved to be undisputed in the Senior Men Sabre. He beat Karabo Thobega to clinch the title in a tightly contested battle. Thobega had already bagged the Senior Men Epee earlier on the day after beating Onkarabile Keraamang in the finals. The Senior Women Epee was won by Aobakwe Modise as Thabile Pilane settled for the second spot.