Lin Mengyang, a first-year undergraduate student at the School of Finance, Renmin University of China (RUC), clinched the championship title in the Women's Saber (Group B) at the 2025 Beijing Higher Education Institutions Fencing Championship. From the curiosity of first picking up a sabre in primary school to rediscovering her passion in university, her journey reflects years of persistence and dedication. At the Championship, she staged a comeback under pressure to win the title, embodying the competitive spirit of a new generation of RUC students.
A Decade with the Blade: From First Encounter to Renewed Passion
"The moment I first held the saber, I was drawn to this sport, so full of intelligence and power," Lin recalled, her eyes shining with passion when speaking about her initiation into fencing. She began fencing in the first grade of primary school, and the sport quickly became a constant in her life.
Countless evenings were spent training in the fencing hall, where disciplined, daily practice—repeating thrusts and parries—sharpened both her technique and her focus.
Her dedication has earned her a series of accolades, including the overall champion in the 2019 National Fencing League U12 women's sabre category, a title in the junior division at the National Secondary School Championships junior division, a bronze medal in the 17+ division at the 2024 China Fencing League third stop, and fourth place at the 2025 Beijing Junior Championships. Each achievement marks a step in her growth.
▲Lin Mengyang is in training and here are some of her awards.
During high school, Lin temporarily set aside the sport to fully engage in study. After enrolling at RUC, she was able to return to the sport she loves.
"The university's inclusive and diverse culture gave me the courage to return to the piste." Balancing training with her studies, she rapidly regained form. Ten years—the blade retained its edge; the original impulse persisted. This tenacity has brought her back to the spotlight in university competitions.
▲In August 2025, Lin Mengyang is at the freshmen registration for undergraduate studies at Renmin University of China.
Turning the Tables: A Comeback Victory
On December 20, 2025, the Beijing Higher Education Institutions Fencing Championship officially opened at Tsinghua University. Guided by the Beijing Municipal Education Commission and organized by the Federation of University Sports of Beijing, the event brought together over 200 athletes from more than 30 institutions.
Lin advanced through the women's sabre (Group B) to reach the final and faced a strong opponent from Beihang University.
▲ In December 2025, Lin Mengyang competes in the Women's Saber (Group B) at the 2025 Beijing Higher Education Institutions Fencing Championship.
The bout got off to a slow start for Lin, who trailed. Rather than panic, she steadied her rhythm and began to fight back, drawing on years of experience and precise control of the bout's tempo. Point by point, the deficit was reversed. By the interval, she led 8–5.
The second period witnessed complete dominance. Focused and decisive, she executed each attack with precision, scoring four consecutive touches to widen the gap. She ultimately sealed a commanding 15–8 victory, claiming the gold medal and bringing honor to Renmin University.
Youthful Distinction: Growing Through Sport
"This victory is the best reward for my 10-year perseverance, and it's inseparable from the support of my university and school," Lin said, expressing her gratitude when discussing her achievement.
She noted that the university's extensive sports resources and emphasis on holistic development allow students to pursue academic excellence while also following their athletic passions.
With her sabre drawn and her path ahead clear, Lin Mengyang's journey is just beginning. Driven by passion and resilience, she is poised to achieve even more—both on the piste and beyond.
