Second State Fencing Tournament In Guadalajara

The Esgrima Vallarta team, led by Jennifer Lobato, traveled to Guadalajara, Jalisco, to participate in the Second State Fencing Tournament on November 30, 2024.

The 2nd State Fencing Tournament, part of the 2024-2025 season, was successfully held at the Code Revolución facilities in Guadalajara. The event brought together dozens of promising young fencers from Jalisco, who competed in four exciting categories: Pre-Infantile Sabre, Sub-12 Male Sabre, Sub-19 Female Sabre, and Open Male Sabre. Among them, athletes from Puerto Vallarta stood out for their dedication and passion in every bout.

Outstanding Performances in Youth Categories

In the Pre-Infantile category, Vallarta's own Darío Romo García earned third place, taking home the bronze medal. His performance was not only a display of talent but also of remarkable determination. At such a young age, Romo García is emerging as one of the most promising sabre fencers in the region.

In the Sub-12 category, Iyari López Cueto Vélez won the silver medal after an intense series of matches. Her precision and skill in every movement highlighted her impeccable preparation, securing her position as runner-up. Her teammate, Dante de la Torre Fernández, achieved fifth place, narrowly missing a medal but proving that his potential continues to grow.

Dulce Álvarez: Rising to the Challenge

One of the tournament's most notable moments was the participation of Dulce Fernanda Álvarez Gaytán in the demanding Sub-19 category. Despite competing against experienced opponents, Dulce finished 12th and 6th in her respective events. Her courage in taking on two challenging positions demonstrates her commitment and determination to excel.

Experience and Competitiveness

In the Open Male Sabre category, veteran Jorge Alberto Tovar Villaseñor achieved sixth place, proving that experience remains a key factor in high-level tournaments. His presence on the piste was an example of discipline and dedication, inspiring the younger athletes.

Preparing for the Next Challenge

The achievements at this tournament are not only a source of pride for Puerto Vallarta but also a motivator for future challenges. Vallarta's fencers have been invited to a special training camp organized by CODE from January 2 to 8, 2025. This initiative aims to refine the athletes' skills ahead of the next state tournament on January 11.

A New Generation on the Rise

Jennifer Lobato, the coach of Vallarta Esgrima, highlighted her team's resilience in an interview:
"These young athletes have shown that consistent effort pays off. Puerto Vallarta is nurturing a new generation of fencers who will leave their mark on state and national sports. We’re on the right path."

With this, Jennifer Lobato also proves that in sports, It’s Time for Women!

As part of their preparation, fencer Etienne Smith participated in his first competition in the United States, the Y-14 RCFC Tournament in Bellevue, WA, finishing mid-table—a commendable result for his debut. Esgrima Vallarta offers a comprehensive program of tournaments, training camps, and excursions aimed at opening opportunities for Vallarta’s athletes.

With their sights set on future challenges, Puerto Vallarta’s athletes return home enriched by their experiences and motivated to continue training, knowing that true triumph lies in every step forward. This tournament left not only medals but also lessons and clear goals for what lies ahead, solidifying Vallarta’s fencing as a rising force in Jalisco’s sports scene.