Blind & Vision Impaired International Fencing Competition Project 2026 to 2027

twitter:title

Funding will directly assist athletes by reducing the financial barriers associated with international competition.

description

twitter:description

https://www.datocms-assets.com/102439/1701081359-2023-asf-website-social.png?auto=format&fit=max&w=1200

twitter:image

https://www.facebook.com/AustralianSportsFoundation

twitter:card

twitter:site

Sydney Para Fencing – Blind &amp; Vision Impaired International Competition Project Supporting Australia&#39;s First Blind &amp; Vision Impaired Fencing Team on the International StageSydney Para Fencing is seeking support to establish Australia&#39;s first international pathway for Blind and Vision Impaired Fencing athletes. Our Blind and Vision Impaired Fencing program commenced in early 2025, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where people who are blind or have low vision can participate in the sport of fencing. Since its launch, the program has successfully built a strong community focused on participation, confidence, physical activity, friendship and personal development. As the program continues to grow, we are now developing a high-performance pathway that will allow Australian athletes to compete at the highest international level. Funding will support Australia&#39;s inaugural Blind and Vision Impaired Fencing Team to attend the following international events:<ul><li>2026 International Trophy Blind Fencing &quot;City of Milan&quot; – Italy, including the official international training camp and tournament.</li></ul> <ul><li>2027 International Trophy Blind Fencing &quot;City of Milan&quot; – Italy.</li></ul> These events represent a significant milestone for the sport, as they will be the first Blind Fencing competitions officially endorsed by World Para Fencing and World Ability Sports. Our athletes have the opportunity to become the first Australians to compete in these historic international events, helping establish Australia&#39;s presence in the global Blind Fencing community. Funding will directly assist athletes by reducing the financial barriers associated with international competition. Support will contribute towards:<ul><li>International airfares</li><li>Accommodation</li><li>Ground transportation and airport transfers</li><li>Travel insurance</li><li>Competition entry fees</li><li>Annual international licences</li><li>Athlete classification</li><li>Coach travel and support</li><li>FIE-standard fencing equipment required for international competition</li><li>Other essential competition and preparation expenses</li></ul> By supporting this project, you are investing in more than international competition. You are helping create Australia&#39;s first recognised international pathway for Blind and Vision Impaired Fencers, inspiring future generations of athletes while promoting inclusion, accessibility and sporting excellence.Together, we can ensure Australian Blind and Vision Impaired athletes have the opportunity to represent their country with pride on the world stage and be part of a landmark moment in the history of international para sport. Rationale for Funding RequiredInternational competition presents a significant financial commitment for athletes and their families. As Blind and Vision Impaired Fencing is still in its infancy in Australia, there is currently limited funding available to support athletes pursuing international competition. The estimated cost for each international tour is approximately $4,000–$5,000 per athlete, covering essential travel-related expenses such as flights, accommodation, airport transfers, travel insurance, competition entry fees, international licences and classification. In addition, athletes require specialised FIE-standard fencing equipment that complies with international competition regulations. The initial investment in equipment is estimated at approximately $3,000 per athlete, creating another substantial barrier for athletes wishing to compete internationally.Many of our athletes face these costs while also managing the additional expenses often associated with living with vision impairment. Without financial assistance, the opportunity to represent Australia at these historic events may simply be out of reach. Funding received through this project will help reduce these financial barriers by providing assistance towards travel, competition costs, coaching support and essential equipment. Our goal is to support as many athletes as possible, ensuring that selection for international competition is determined by commitment, skill and potential—not financial circumstances. By investing in this project, funding partners will help establish Australia&#39;s first internationally competitive Blind and Vision Impaired Fencing team, while creating a sustainable pathway for future athletes to follow. This support will leave a lasting legacy by making the sport more accessible and giving more Australians who are blind or have low vision the opportunity to compete on the world stage.