Sport
First Junior Imperium Fencing Trophy for London Cup Held at Whitgift
The children competed in the age categories U9, U11, U13 and U15 in the city stage of the Imperium Fencing Trophy. Those competing came from clubs such as Knightsbridge, Chelsea and Central London Fencing Club. The level of competition was high, involving fencers who represent the English and Wales national teams. This added to the positive, passionate and competitive atmosphere of the day.
Speaking at the event, Dmitry Leus said: "We believe that sport can play a transformative role in a person's life. It is not only about excelling at the sport itself. There are also tremendous life skills to be gained from dedicated training and the experience of competition. We are delighted to play a role in bringing the sport to local children and give them more opportunities for personal development in professional sport or just for fun."
Mr Leus has been engaged in fencing since the age of 12 and he went on to be European champion at the age of 17. He is passionate about passing the same opportunities on to the younger generations. He explains: "I have a strong belief in the role sport can play in a young person's life. The development of children's sports is an important contribution to the future for all of us and this is why we at Imperium Investments focus some of our charitable efforts in this direction."
After a long day of robust single combats, the main prizes were gained by the junior fencers of Leon Paul , Chelsea and Knightsbridge (U9 and U13). The next stage of the tournament will be the National British stage of IFT. It will take place in September and will involve the representatives of British fencing clubs from Manchester , Liverpool , Glasgow and other British cities. The European Cup of ITF will finish the season in November and will determine the best junior fencers among British and European fencing clubs.