Qatar’s first wheelchair fencing classes launched today at the French-Qatari School Lycee Voltaire under the sponsorship of Definitely Able, a Sasol initiative, and local telecommunications provider Ooredoo. Organized by the Clement Fencing Academy, the classes will demonstrate the important role of sports in improving fitness and enhancing self-confidence for people with disabilities.
Sasol, the international integrated chemicals company, has made inclusion, accessibility and support of the disabled a key pillar of its corporate social responsibility programme, sponsoring many sporting and lifestyle opportunities that can help the disabled reach their full potential under Sasol’s Definitely Able umbrella. Through their Accessible Qatar initiative, Sasol is also working to make Qatar more accessible to people of all abilities.
Wheelchair fencing was developed by Sir Ludwig Guttmann at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital in England and was introduced to the world at the Rome 1960 Paralympic Games. Disabled men and women who usually use a wheelchair in their daily lives are eligible to compete in foil epee (men and women) and saber (men) events. Their wheelchairs are fastened to the floor during competition.
At the event, lead sponsor Sasol unveiled a set of advanced wheelchairs specially designed for wheelchair fencing. The new wheelchairs provide users with smooth and functional control, allowing them to safely master the sport of fencing.
Maurice Radebe, Executive Vice President of Sasol addressed the event: “Today’s event is a wonderful partnership, one that is the culmination of many efforts to support and expand the horizons of the Qatar community – regardless of ability. At Sasol, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to be a full member of their community, and sports provide a unique social space for us to learn and play together.”
Christophe Clement, Maitre D’armes of the Clement Fencing Academy said: “We are excited about this new set of classes and the opportunity to invite a larger community to learn about wheelchair fencing. With the support of Sasol and Ooredoo, we are able to offer these classes at a significantly reduced price and open our doors further to the disabled community,” adding that “Involving the abled and disabled together in the same practice is a strong symbol of the social and educational values of fencing, and shows the importance of mutual respect for your opponent.”
Clement Fencing Academy embraces the value of “fencing for all” through the practice of fencing and self-development. The goal of the CFA is to combine fun with education. Clement Fencing Academy is offering wheelchair fencing classes at a 90% discount at Lycee Voltaire schools in West Bay and Al Waab. To enrol you may contact [email protected].
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