Serhiy Mishchenko

President of Ukrainian National Fencing Federation

On behalf of the Ukrainian National Fencing Federation I would like to welcome all participants and guests of the European Fencing Championship 2008.

It is the first time that Kyiv host fencing tournament of such level. Nevertheless, Ukraine has a considerable experience in organizing international competitions in this ancient sport: for several years Kyiv has been a host of ‘The Golden Gates’ World Cup in epee, Odessa hosts ‘Odessa Cup’ – World Cup in saber. The experience of organizing these competitions instills confidence that the European Fencing Championship 2008 will be organized on the high level.

It is a great honour for us to welcome participants and guests from more than 30 European countries. We have paid a lot of attention to the organization of this fencing tournament and hope that you will enjoy taking part in this grand event.

I am sure that the European Fencing Championship will remain in our memory because of spectacular fights, unforgettable victories and help athletes to demonstrate their fencing skills.