Narita Pen Shines with Grit at Asian U-23 Fencing Championship, Finishes 17th After Tight Match.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 23 October 2025

In a spirited display of resilience and determination, Cambodian fencer Pen Narita secured 17th place at the Asian Under 23 Fencing Championship 2025, held on October 22, after falling to Thai fencer Chanita in the elimination round. Competing in the women’s individual sabre category among 25 fencers, Narita’s performance marks a promising return to the international stage after a year-long break from competition.

Narita, a former SEA Games bronze medalist, began her fencing journey in 2019 at Western International School, where her talent quickly caught the attention of national selectors. By 2022, she had earned her spot on the Cambodian national team under the guidance of French coach Bruno, who trained the squad intensively ahead of the 32nd SEA Games, hosted by Cambodia in 2023. Her efforts, along with her teammates, delivered a proud moment for the nation — Cambodia’s bronze medal in women’s sabre.

Following the SEA Games, Narita took a one-year hiatus to focus on her Grade 12 national exams, a decision that reflected her dedication both on and off the piste. Her persistence paid off when she successfully completed high school in 2024, earning a Grade C — a milestone she describes as one of her proudest life achievements.

After finishing her studies, Narita rejoined the national team, eager to resume training and compete internationally. However, her journey was not without challenges. With Coach Bruno’s contract ending and no replacement sabre coach appointed, Narita continued training largely on her own, maintaining her form and discipline through sheer determination.

Despite these obstacles, Narita performed impressively in the pool rounds — defeating Malaysia (5–3) and the Philippines (5–2) — to advance to the Round of 32. There, she faced the seasoned Thai fencer Chanita and was defeated 15–5, placing 17th overall in a strong field of 25 competitors.

Her teammates, who recently switched disciplines to sabre only Three months before the event, also competed valiantly in what was their first-ever international appearance. The Cambodian women’s sabre team — consisting of Narita Pen, Sovann Sandra and the CHOR sisters, Chor Sereymorakot and Chor Sereymunita — are now setting their sights on the 17th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan next year.

According to Sok Ang, the team’s head coach and delegation leader, the athletes’ biggest challenge remains a lack of consistent international exposure.

 “Experience is everything,” said Coach Ang. “Without competing regularly, athletes can’t gauge their true level. It’s like a student studying mathematics — you can learn all you want, but without taking the test, you’ll never know how well you really understand it.”

This year’s championship was made possible through generous sponsorships from AirAsia and Legend Cinema, which supported Cambodia’s participation. For the young sabre team, this tournament marks not just a competition, but the beginning of a larger journey one that promises growth, experience, and, perhaps soon, podium finishes.

With determination as sharp as her blade, Narita continues to embody the spirit of Cambodian sports humble beginnings, tireless effort, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.