Kiwi wins gold at fencing champs

  • Breaking
  • 02/10/2010

New Zealand has claimed a gold medal at the Commonwealth fencing championships in Melbourne with Ping Yuan winning the women's foil title.

Ping Yuan, originally from Shanghai, China, was tied at the end of regulation time 10-10 against Scottish fencer Lisa McKenzie in Thursday night's final.

McKenzie had priority during overtime and after some close calls, Ping scored a one light touch to take the gold 11-10.

Ping, who is now based in Wellington and representing Hutt Valley Fencing Club was thrilled with the win.

"I am happy to be part of the New Zealand team, they work together like a family, look after their fencers like their own children - it feels good.

"I have become a New Zealand citizen, I love New Zealand and want to help develop the sport here."

Ping is the first New Zealander to win a Commonwealth individual title since Dot Colmen won the women's foil at the 1962 Empire Games.

The women's epee team took the title in 2006.

Fencing was an official sport at the Commonwealth Games from 1950-1970.

NZPA

source: newshub archive