Change to mask requirements – AFC events
The AFF would like to remind all fencers that, as previously announced, the new FIE requirements for fastening systems for masks will apply to all AFC events from 1 January 2019. The first event to which the new rules will apply is the Australian Junior Championships, to be held in Melbourne in February 2019.
The new mask requirements were introduced by the FIE in response to safety concerns following a number of incidents in which masks have fallen off during bouts. Further details are contained in Rule m25.7 of the FIE Material Rules – click here.
As at 8 December 2018, the AFF have been advised that the following distributors have received approval to retro-fit masks (subject to the conditions imposed by the manufacturers):
* Fencing Imports Australia (contact Kayt Spano) – approved by Allstar, Uhlmann, Negrini, Leon Paul and FWF
* JG Fencing (contact Jeff Gray) – approved by Leon Paul and Absolute Fencing
* Swordsplay (contact Jeff Hardge) – approved by PBT, Allstar and Uhlmann
Fencers who are planning on competing in AFC events during 2019 should contact the above distributors directly for further information regarding retro-fitting of existing masks.