The 10th Middle School Students Fencing Championships kicked off at Jiangsu Xishan Senior High School in Wuxi on Aug 11.

Competitors battle it out at Jiangsu Xishan Senior High School in Wuxi on Aug 11. [Photo/ jsenews.com]

Sponsored by China School Sports Federation (CSSF) and undertaken by Jiangsu Xishan Senior High School, the event is the highest level fencing competition for middle school students in China.

More than 500 students from 80 middle schools across the country took part in the event.

Contestants took part in individual and team events using foils, epée and sabre.

The winners' podium at the 10th Middle School Fencing Championships. [Photo/ jsenews.com]

After six days' competition, students from Guangzhou No 44 Middle School came out on top winning four gold, two silvers and one bronze medal.

Fencing, described by some as real-life chess has increased in popularity in recent years due to its health benefits and positive effects on intellectual development. Currently, 13 primary and middle schools in Wuxi run fencing classes with more than 40,000 students taking part.