The Hong Kong fencing team has achieved remarkable results in recent years and though hosting the Men’s Foil World Cup for the first time this year, it has intensified the enthusiasm for the sport even more. However, the cost of fencing programmes can often be the obstacle for families. The “Jebsen InspiringHK!” Programme which aims to provide equal learning opportunities for underprivileged students has helped 12-year-old Lee Kwan Yat, who has symptoms of ADHD, cultivate a habit of regular physical activity and improve his focus through fencing. Over the past three years, Kwan Yat highly values each fencing class, rarely taking a day off. From September 2023 to April this year, his attendance rate has been at 100%.
Cultivating a Sporting Habit through Fencing and Improving Focus
It has been three years since Kwan Yat joined the Tuen Mun fencing class organised by IHKSports, whenever he steps onto the fencing strip during competitions, he becomes calm and composed. However, that was not always the case, Kwan Yat used to struggle with maintaining focus in daily life and school, Kwan Yat’s mother noticed his lack of focus from a young age, often being absent-minded during class, requiring repeated conversations before he could understand and respond. Since joining the fencing class, Kwan Yat not only developed a regular sporting habit but also been more patient when listening to the coach’s instructions, and improved his attention and focus skills.
The power of sports also helped Kwan Yat overcome the initial stage of fencing, which involves tedious and repetitive basic training. Before class, he would be full of energy, playing and chasing with his classmates. However, as soon as the coach gave instructions, everyone obediently stood in their designated positions. “Fencing is a very cool sport! Especially when I get to wear the mask and engage in thrilling duels with opponents.”
Even during the pandemic, the classes continued through online sessions where Kwan Yat would practise fencing movements in front of the camera, using a water bottle as a substitute. “Although it’s more challenging to perform movements like lunges at home, I don’t want to disrupt my training.” Through fencing he also made friends with similar interests who can encourage and help each other.
As I am the only one learning fencing in my school class, there isn’t anyone I can discuss with at school, but in fencing class, I have friends who practise and learn together.
Fearless in the Face of Defeat, “I want to Become Number One!”
IHKSports class provides various learning experiences for students, including friendly competitions held at the end of each year where Kwan Yat once achieved second place in his age group. Fencing is a sport where every second counts, and it’s natural to feel nervous before stepping onto the strip. However, despite his young age, Kwan Yat thoroughly enjoys competing. “Once I’m on the strip, I focus completely. I prefer competitions over practice because I can give it my all.” Seeing opponents in tears after losing only fuels his determination.
I don’t feel upset when I lose because I know I can try again next time.
Whenever there’s an opportunity, Kwan Yat’s mother watches fencing competitions with him. Witnessing the moment Chueng Ka Long won the gold medal for Hong Kong in the Men’s Foil event at the Tokyo Olympics back in 2021 fuelled Kwan Yat with admiration and motivation to strive to be better and more accurate in his attacks.
I want to become number one and win a medal!