The prestigious MKFA Epee Cup returns for the 2014 edition, which will hold a thrilling battle for fencing glory.

To be held from December 19-20 at Dubai International Academy in Emirates Hills, the third annual Epee Cup, which is sponsored by Gargash Enterprises Mercedes-Benz, the Dubai Sports Council and Sport360°, will feature more than 100 fencers from all over the world competing in four different categories.

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“Fencing is an Olympic sport that is part of the UAE culture and heritage,” said Mihail Kouzev, director of the MKFA Epee Cup.

“I strongly believe that with the support of the UAE government and other locally based companies we can grow the event to Grand Prix Cup, because UAE and especially Dubai deserve to have such high profile events so we can show our outstanding facilities and hospitality services. 

“I’ve always said fencing is one of the best sports for the region because it’s clearly connected to the culture of the UAE.”

The event is not accepting individual entries and only fencers registered with their country's federation can sign-up. The Dh80 entry fee applies only to the Open Men and Open Women fencers.

Participants can fence in the Open Men or Open Women categories for those born in 1999 or earlier, or the U15 Boys and U15 Girls categories for those born in 2000, 2001 and 2003.

Prize money will be awarded only to the Open Men and Open Women winners with first place receiving Dh3,500, second place earning 2,000, and third and fourth place netting Dh1,000. There will also be other prizes up for grabs with more than Dh15,000 available in gift vouchers and other in presents.

Registration is open until Monday at 16:00 and can be done by filling out the form on www.mkfencingacademy.com and sending it to fence@mkfencingacademy.com.

It’s not just about the fencers. Fans can also enjoy all the action at the Dubai International Academy, as entry for the event is free.

So raise your fencing sword and be ‘en guard’ at the MKFA Epee Cup 2014. It promises to be a memorable event for participants and fans alike.

What: MKFA Epee Cup fencing tournament
Where: Dubai International Academy in Emirates Hills
When: December 19-20 starting at 09:00, with registration closing on Monday, December 8 at 16:00
Contact: Visit www.mkfencingacademy.com to register and for more information, as well as the MK Fencing Academy Facebook page