JOSH Jordan showed that the future is bright at the York Fencing Club when he triumphed at the club's ninth Challenge Cup competition.

He went through the Under-14s' section of the competition unbeaten to take the title.

Malton's David Hinchcliffe had to be content with second spot after falling in Jordan's wake.

There was victory in the ladies foil for Sandrine Mallard, from France, who is teaching French and Spanish at Burnholme School, Tang Hall.

In the senior men's epee category, York Fencing Club were represented by Martin Williams, a 29-year-old stockbroker from York, and Miles Middlebrook, a 40-year-old farmer from Beverly.

The pair fought bravely in the face of strong opposition, winning six and four bouts respectively.

But they were unable to prevent Jeff Wood, from Manchester, claiming the trophy ahead of Germany's Felix Riede in second place and Stockport's Rick Kent in third place.

Leeds teenager Hanna Lyons won the ladies' epee competition, followed by Silvia Nunn and Alex Campbell.

Patch Bell took the honours in the men's foil, closely followed by York computer expert Graham Cook, as York Fencing Club members produced impressive performances.

The Challenge Cup tournament was held at the club's headquarters at Archbishop Holgate's School, York, and there were over 20 fencers competing.

York Fencing Club are now gearing up for the International York Express event in March.

All those wishing to join the club's beginners' class should contact the secretary/manager on (0113) 2688825 or visit www.yorkfencingclub.cwc.net

Updated: 10:42 Saturday, January 26, 2002