Over the weekend of 16-18 July, a team of 10 Australian fencers visited Christchurch, New Zealand for the Oceania Junior Championships. The event was also attended by a team from New Caledonia, and by juniors from all parts of New Zealand. Cameron Smith was the nominated Australian manager / referee / coach, supported by Michelle McAuslan.

In the Mens' Epee, Australia fielded six fencers. The top two Australians, Cosmin Mihailescu and Alex Hunter, met in the quarter-finals of the DE. After Cosmin's win, he progressed through to the final where he lost to the New Zealander Alex Chan 10-15. Final rankings were Cosmin Mihailescu (2), Alex Hunter (7), Nick Davies (10), Reagan Clarke (14), Robert Snell (18), and Patrick Daley (19). In the team event, Australia beat New Zealand 45-32.

In the Womens' Epee, Australian fencers Ioana Mihailescu and Amy Reynolds also met in the quarter-finals of the DE. Ioana won, and she progressed through to the final where she won against New Caledonian Clarisse Gally 15-10. Final rankings were Ioana Mihailescu (1), Amy Reynolds (=3). There was no official team event, so the two Australian girls and the New Caledonian formed a "goodwill team" and beat New Zealand 45-31.

In the Mens' Foil, Australia fielded four fencers, all of whom won their pools and made the 8. The final was between Australians Sam Mooney-Grand and Robert Snell, which Sam won 15-9. Final rankings were Sam Mooney-Grand (1), Robert Snell (2), TC Reynolds (5), and Patrick Daley (7). In the team event, Australia again beat New Zealand, this time 44-35.

Finally, in the Mens' Sabre, Australian Nick Davies lost in the semi-finals 8-15 to eventual winner Alex Chan from New Zealand, for a final ranking of equal third.

Australia medalled in all events contested, picking up three gold, two silver, and two bronze medals.


Last Updated (Thursday, 19 August 2010 08:14)