HI-PAL Fencing Tournament Held in Waimea

Media Release

South Kohala Community Policing Officers and the Hawaiʻi Fencing Association recently teamed up to hold the first-ever Hawaiʻi Isle Police Activities League (HI-PAL) Fencing Tournament on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Waimea District Park in Waimea.

Six youths, age 9 to 18, paired with adults to exhibit their skills, precision, and finesse, in the foil and saber divisions.

Fencing is one of the oldest sports in the world, tracing its roots back to ancient civilizations where it was used for combat and self-defense. Over the centuries it has become a sport of precision, strategy, and elegance. Modern fencing consists of three disciplines: foil, saber and épée, each with its unique rules and techniques.

“We were honored to partner with the Hawaiʻi Fencing Association to bring this sport to Waimea,” said South Kohala Community Policing Officer Justin Cabanting. “The matches were exciting to watch and the crowds were treated to some highly contested duels.”

In addition to matches in each division, the event honored two fencing association members who graduated high school this year and will continue their competitive fencing journey at their respective colleges.

HI-PAL is a program of the Hawaiʻi Police Department in which police officers interact with youth in various activities as mentors. This positive connection encourages teamwork, citizenship, and responsibility among youth. For more information about this HI-PAL program, contact Community Police Officer Justin Cabanting at the Waimea Police Station, (808) 887-3080 or via email at justin.cabanting@hawaiicounty.gov.