Witness Fencing’s Next Superstars at the Oregon Convention Center

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -  The 2023-24 USA Fencing National Tournament calendar continues on as fencing’s most talented youngsters pack up and head to Portland, Ore., for the March North American Cup — held March 1-4. 

It’s all going down at the Oregon Convention Center, where some of USA Fencing’s youngest fencers will take to the fencing strip. Every Olympic hopeful's dream of representing Team USA starts at a tournament just like the March North American Cup.

“If history is any indication, at least one of the fencers competing in Portland — and probably many more — will go on to represent Team USA at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles,” says Phil Andrews, USA Fencing CEO. “That journey begins now, making this a unique chance to witness future fencing stars today.”

Some 2,289 fencers will gain valuable experience, lifelong memories and national ranking points in Portland. And they’ll bring with them  hundreds more coaches, family members and supporters — providing a healthy boost to the local economy. 

Portland is the last stop on the national calendar for these youth fencers as they compete to qualify for the 2024 National Championships in Columbus, Ohio.

These fencers are from 24 states with the youngest competitor being 7 years old, and the oldest 16. There are specifically 115 fencers staying in their home state for the tournament with 64 of them not traveling far at all being from the city of Portland.

The competition will unfold over 24 individual events across four different age classifications: Cadet (under 17), Y-14, Y-12 and Y-10. 

USA Fencing invites the community to check out fencing at this national tournament. Admission is free, and open to the public.