MUSCAT, NOV 7
Oman’s Jana al Sharji continued her impressive international run by claiming a second successive World Cup silver medal in the cadet women’s individual épée in Manama, Bahrain.
Al Sharji reached the under-17 final on November 5, while teammate Salma al Dighaishi advanced to the quarterfinals and finished seventh, giving Oman two places among the event’s top eight.
The result followed Al Sharji’s silver in the same category in San José, Costa Rica, on October 22, securing two podium finishes in different countries within a fortnight.
The FIE Cadet and Junior Épée World Cup in Manama runs from November 5 to 8 under the International Fencing Federation (FIE).
For Al Sharji, another appearance in a World Cup final has strengthened her determination to take the next step and win gold. She said the experience gained in Costa Rica had helped her approach the Bahrain competition with greater confidence, while consistent training, concentration and adherence to the coaching staff’s instructions had supported her performance.
“I thank the coaching staff and everyone who supported and encouraged me. This medal gives me great motivation to continue working and improving,” she said.
“My next ambition is to win World Cup gold, deliver my best performance at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar and raise Oman’s flag at international competitions.”
IMPORTANT STAGE
National team head coach Hisham Karshood described the Bahrain results as an important stage in the development of Omani fencing, attributing the performances to years of planning, sustained preparation and regular participation in international tournaments.
He said having two fencers among the top eight demonstrated the growing depth of the women’s squad, with more players developing the ability to progress through international competitions.
The athletes’ young ages also offered considerable scope for improvement, he added, with each overseas appearance providing opportunities to sharpen their technical skills and gain competitive experience.
Karshood said the coaching staff’s ambitions extended to winning gold and challenging at the highest levels of Asian and international fencing. He stressed the importance of continued investment in young Omani talent and providing the preparation needed to sustain their progress.
Al Dighaishi, meanwhile, viewed her seventh-place finish as an encouraging step despite missing out on the podium.
She said reaching the quarterfinals had strengthened her confidence against opponents with varied international experience, crediting regular training and close work with the coaching staff for her progress.
Although she had hoped to win a medal, Al Dighaishi said the competition had highlighted areas she needed to improve. Her focus would now be on correcting those mistakes, refining her technical and tactical execution and turning future international appearances into podium finishes.
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