The University of Toronto Varsity Blues women's fencing team looks to reclaim the provincial title at the 2025 OUA Fencing Championships on Feb. 8-9 in Kingston, Ont.

Serving as host for the provincial championship last season, the Blues saw a run of five consecutive first-place finishes come to an end.

"Last season's second-place finish reminded us that the competitive landscape in the OUA is always evolving. After five consecutive titles, it was a pivotal moment for our program," said Blues fencing head coach Thomas Nguyen.

Leading the way once again for the Blues will be fourth-year sabre specialist Janna Elshakankiri, who will be competing in her fourth consecutive OUA Championship. She has previously earned a gold medal in 2022-23 and placed second last season in the individual sabre event. Earlier this season, Elshakankiri has already showcased her tremendous form claiming the top spot in the sabre at the Brock Open, while also picking up a silver medal in the sabre relay at the RMC Team Invitational.

In the foil bracket, Catherine Wu will be looking to continue to add to her medal collection as she enters her third provincial championship. She has reached the podium in each of her previous two appearances, placing first two years ago in her rookie season and second overall in 2023-24.

Toronto will work hard to beat the expectations of themselves as they look to climb back to the top of the podium. Nguyen adds, "Championships are decided on championship day, and our athletes understand what it takes to perform when it matters most. We're looking forward to the opportunity to once again compete for the banner."

Action inside the Athletic and Recreation Centre at Queen's University will begin with the individual foil, epee, and sabre events on Saturday (Feb. 8), before the team relays on Sunday (Feb. 9).