NCOE Aurangabad fencer Gunjan wins gold; Arlin AV wins back-to-back Khelo India Youth Games gold medals 

Khe Today Bureau

Rajgir: The Khelo India Youth Games 2025 fencing competition once again saw thrilling matches in the Women’s Epee and Men’s Saber individual events. Talented young fencers battled it out for the top spots, showcasing their skills and determination.

In the Women’s Epee Individual event, Gunjan from Chandigarh emphatically beat Palak from Haryana 15-5 in the final. Gunjan’s precision and speed were on full display as she played smartly, repeatedly attacking and striking Palak’s shoes and legs – valid targets in Epee fencing. This strategy made defending nearly impossible for Palak, and Gunjan deservedly claimed the gold medal. Deepanshi from Haryana and Adeeba Hoorain from Telangana won bronze medals.

Gunjan, currently training at NCOE Aurangabad, credited her win to her coaches and family. “The credit for my win goes to my coaches and family. I have been a part of the Aurangabad NCOE centre for two years, and I’m grateful for all the support we receive from there. My technique, stamina, and ability to handle pressure have increased tremendously due to the regular physical training camps and psychological sessions that take place in our NCOE,” Gunjan told SAI Media.

Gunjan’s coach, Shankar Narayanan, guided her well. “I’m super happy and proud that she got the gold medal, which she truly deserves. She’s very keen on knowing every detail of the game and is always in learning mode. She asks questions on how to do it and what not to do, which is really important for any athlete. Her curiosity, hard work, and grit have made her achieve this today. We at SAI’s Aurangabad NCOE ensure that each and every athlete gives their best and train them to unlock their full potential.”

In the Men’s Saber Individual Event, Arlin A.V from Tamil Nadu emerged victorious, defeating Kulraj Panav Sharma from Chandigarh 15-11 in the final. Arlin’s agility and quick reflexes were key to his success, and his impressive footwork and energetic performance on the piste captivated the audience. Meanwhile, Livjot and Ujjawal, both from Haryana, secured bronze medals, further highlighting the state’s robust fencing presence.

Arlin’s father Arul, was seen cheering and encouraging his son throughout the final bout. “What’s more to ask from him? I’m super proud of my son, and I’m happy to say that this is the second gold of his Khelo India journey. He struck gold even in previous edition of Khelo India Youth Games individual fencing event in Chennai! This is his second consecutive win, and I couldn’t be prouder,” he said.

Arlin, who currently practices at ASI (Army Sports Institute) Pune and has won the gold medal in the same fencing category in previous editions of the Khelo India Youth Games, said, “I’m happy, and I thank my father for his unwavering support and my coaches.”

The Khelo India Youth Games have provided a platform for young fencers to showcase their skills and talent. With talented fencers like Gunjan and Arlin emerging from these Games, Indian fencing is assured for a bright future.

Results:

Women’s Epee Individual Event:

Semifinals:

Gunjan (Chandigarh) defeated Deepanshi (Haryana) 15-12

Palak (Haryana) defeated Adeeba Hoorain (Telangana) 15-13

Final:

Gunjan (Chandigarh) defeated Palak(Haryana) 15-5

Men’s saber Individual Event

Semifinals:

Arlin A.V (Tamil Nadu) defeated Ujjawal (Haryana) 15-11

Kulraj Panav Sharma (Chandigarh) defeated Livjot (Haryana) 15-11

Final:

Arlin A.V (Tamil Nadu) defeated Kulraj Panav Sharma (Chandigarh)

The medalists are:

Women’s  Epee Individual Event

– Gold: Gunjan (Chandigarh)

-Silver: Palak (Haryana)

– Bronze: Deepanshi (Haryana) and Adeeba Hoorain (Telangana)

Men’s saber Individual Event

– Gold: Arlin A.V (Tamil Nadu)

-Silver: Kulraj Panav Sharma (Chandigarh)

– Bronze: Livjot (Haryana) and Ujjawal (Haryana).