1 CAD HQ Officers Represent Canada at World Military Fencing Championship

Captains Noah Lee and Mary-Anne Saciuk of 1 Canadian Air Division Headquarters (1 CAD HQ) recently represented Canada at the 49th "Conseil International du Sport Militaire" (CISM) World Military Fencing Championship in Veszprém-Balatonakarattya, Hungary.

The Winnipeg-based officers were among only 12 Canadian athletes selected to compete at the prestigious international event, joining military fencers from 16 nations around the world. Competing in the Women's Sabre discipline, Capt Lee and Capt Saciuk demonstrated the skill, discipline, and resilience that are hallmarks of both high-performance sport and military service.

Held from 28 September to 1 October 2026, the championship brought together some of the world's top military fencers in the spirit of the CISM motto, "Friendship Through Sport." The competition provided athletes with an opportunity to test themselves against elite international opponents while strengthening the bonds of camaraderie and mutual respect that unite military members across national borders.

For Capt Lee and Capt Saciuk, the event was a unique opportunity to compete on the world stage while proudly representing the Canadian Armed Forces, 1 CAD HQ, and Winnipeg's military community. Their participation highlighted the important role that sport plays in fostering leadership, teamwork, and excellence both within and beyond military service.

The championship concluded with team competitions and a closing ceremony celebrating athletic achievement and international friendship. Canada was also honoured with the Friendship Through Sport Award, recognizing the Canadian contingent's professionalism, sportsmanship, and commitment to the values that define the CISM community.

Through their participation, Capt Lee and Capt Saciuk not only challenged themselves against some of the world's best military athletes but also helped showcase the dedication and professionalism of Canadian Armed Forces members on the international stage.