This past season, Hills West freshman and varsity fencing team member Bhairavi “Bhavi” Khanna achieved a major milestone by qualifying for the 2026 Junior Olympics. The prestigious event will take place this January in Kansas City, Missouri, and is considered one of the premier fencing competitions on the national calendar.
The Junior Olympics is a multi-day tournament that brings together elite junior, cadet, and team-level athletes from across the United States. Competitors will face off in foil, epee, and saber disciplines, showcasing top-tier skill, athleticism, and sportsmanship. The event features Junior, Cadet, and Junior Team categories, providing fencers with a high-stakes opportunity to compete on a national stage, gain invaluable experience, and measure their abilities against the best peers in the country.
Qualifying for the Junior Olympics is no small feat, particularly for a freshman competing at the varsity level. Khanna’s accomplishment reflects her dedication, discipline, and commitment to her sport, as well as the countless hours spent training and refining her technique. Her success also highlights the strength of the Hills West fencing program, which continues to develop talented student-athletes capable of competing at the highest levels.
The Junior Olympics is widely regarded as a stepping stone for young fencers with aspirations of collegiate competition and beyond. Participation in the event offers exposure to elite competition and the chance to compete in an intense, fast-paced environment that mirrors the highest levels of the sport. Spectators can expect a thrilling showcase of precision, strategy, and determination throughout the tournament.
The Half Hollow Hills Central School District proudly recognized Khanna’s achievement on social media, writing, “We’re proud of Bhavi for representing Hills West with excellence in this impressive achievement!” As she prepares to compete in Kansas City, Khanna carries with her the support of her teammates, coaches, school community, and family, all eager to see her continue to excel on the national fencing stage.