Ocean Center first-time host of Veteran Fencing World Championships
The Ocean Center is honored to be the first-time host for the 2023 Veteran Fencing World Championships. Taking place Oct. 11-16, the event is the first International Fencing Federation (FIE) event held in the United States in more than four years and the first ever in Daytona Beach.
The event offers six days of excitement as the world’s top Veteran fencers compete in 24 events for men and women in individual and team competitions. Athletes will include 72 veterans representing Team USA, a group that brought home 19 medals, including seven gold, from last year’s event.
“Ours is truly a lifelong sport, including and embracing everyone drawn to the excitement and passion of what it means to be a fencer,” said FIE Interim President Emmanuel Katsiadakis. “In particular, the Veteran Fencing World Championships provides an opportunity not only for excellent and thrilling competition but also to celebrate our global fencing family and friends, old and new.”
“We’re excited to welcome these top athletes from across the world to our facility,” said Ocean Center Interim Director Tim Buckley. “Not only is this a great opportunity for the competitors to experience our area, but it’s also a chance for our community to watch some of the best Veteran fencers show off their skills.”
“Daytona Beach is proud to serve as host for the upcoming 2023 Veteran Fencing World Championships for the first time,” said Brandon Little, Sports Business Development Manager for the Daytona Beach Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We’re looking forward to witnessing athletes from around the world compete. While enjoying accommodations at several different hotels, we hope the participants and their friends and families are also able to take part in the numerous activities available within the destination and bring positive economic impact into the community.”
USA Fencing is seeking volunteers to lend a hand at the event. Individuals will not only make a difference in the event but also serve as an ambassador for USA Fencing and the USA. In exchange for their time, volunteers will receive a t-shirt, free parking and a meal voucher. Learn more at https://www.usafencing.org/news_article/show/1282072.
“The Veterans Committee looks forward to the opportunity to show the world the strength and energy of our community,” said Valerie Asher, chair of the USA Fencing Veterans Committee. “Please help us make this an amazing event — make a donation, volunteer and come to cheer!”
The event is open to the public, and tickets are available online in advance or at the door. A one-day pass is $5 and a tournament pass is $25. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://daytonabeach2023.com/.
