The aprons were given to the wheelchair fencers at a ceremony attended by Graciela Nario, President of the Uruguayan Paralympic Committee, as well as Uruguayan Fencing Federation President Rodolfo Lopez and two athletes from the country. 

It is hoped the donation of the equipment will help the development of wheelchair fencing in Uruguay.

“Since 2012, Uruguay is developing wheelchair fencing and recently received from IWAS aprons for epee, which means the recognition of our country and the will of the federation to support and promote our sport in all countries,” Franco De Caria, wheelchair fencing coach at Club de Gold del Uruguay, said.

“For us it means more internal skills and quality training for athletes.

“I want to thank IWAS for supporting our country in this step in the development of our sport.”

A similar shipment of equipment is due to be delivered to Cuban wheelchair fencers in the near future and the donation of the aprons comes as part of IWAS’ commitment to expanding the worldwide reach of sport.

The governing body aims to target those nations with limited resources in an attempt to get them competing at more global events.

“It is fantastic to be able to provide equipment to a wheelchair fencing developing country,” IWAS chief executive Charmaine Hooper said.

“With the enthusiasm and determination of the athletes, the Uruguayan Paralympic Committee and the Uruguayan Fencing Federation, I am sure the athletes will be regulars at IWAS Wheelchair Fencing events of the future.”