5 Fencing Athletes Participate in the Asian Championship in India
Phnom Penh, 16 June 2026
One male fencer and four female fencers have been dispatched to participate in the Asian Fencing Championship, which will take place from June 19 to 24, 2026, in New Delhi, India. On the evening of June 16, 2026, Mr. Kchao Sopheap, Executive Member of the Fencing Federation of Cambodia and Head of the Delegation, led a group of four fencers—male fencer Khoeun Tima, and female fencer Hai Sreysros, Phat Lyka, and Men Monika—traveling from Techo International Airport to New Delhi, India, via Air Cambodia. Meanwhile, female fencer Calissi Olga Rachelle will depart from Italy and arrive on the afternoon of the 17th. Lastly, coach Sok Ang will travel on the 18th, departing from Phnom Penh.
Indeed, participating this time is in accordance with the Fencing Federation of Cambodia's 2026 annual plan, which aims to test the abilities of the athletes in preparation for the 20th Asian Games. Regrettably, however, fencing was not permitted to participate based on the decision of the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport and the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia. Nevertheless, we are utilizing this golden opportunity to its fullest potential and setting a new goal for 2026. That goal is to prepare for the regional championship and to train extensively for the 34th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in 2027. As for the Asian Youth Games 2031, it falls under a separate grassroots development plan from this current competition.
This year, the Fencing Federation of Cambodia has received support from various private sectors to organize domestic competitions. Similarly, participation in this international event received permission from the Ministry of Education Youth and Sport, alongside travel sponsorships from Air Cambodia, and direct cash sponsorships from H.E. Te Laurent, President of the Federation, Mr. Hu Jianhai, Vice President of the Federation, and Mr. Kchao Sopheap, Executive Member.
This sponsorship has helped ease the financial burden on Cambodian fencers, granting them the opportunity to compete internationally and vie for medals for the nation. Furthermore, it enables them to purchase necessary competition equipment. Fencing gear is quite expensive, costing approximately $1,500 per set, and requires an ongoing expense of $500 to $800 annually for maintenance or
