USA Fencing National Championships
 

By Greg Echlin

Innovations both high-tech and old-school ensured success for the 2015 USA Fencing National Championships & July Challenge at San Jose Convention Center. A computerized badge system kept hassles in check, while a dramatic setting for the big events kept the energy high. “Technology, coupled with highlighting some of the matches in more of a theater setting, were the two things that stood out the most,” said Patricia Ernstrom, executive director of the San Jose Sports Authority.

The semifinals and finals in foil, saber and epee were staged in a theatrical setting on a raised strip in the convention center’s Grand Ballroom, giving spectators a prime view, which drew praise from participants. “I like that showy aspect of it and I hope we see more of that in our championship events,” said Sage Palmedo, a 19-year-old rising star from Portland, Oregon, who won the saber gold in the Division I July Challenge and the National Championships in San Jose.

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