SEA Games: Nicanor rallies to bring home 1st fencing gold for PH

Winning moment for Jylyn Nicanor of Philippines against Permatasari Diah of Indonesia duing fencing competition held at World Trade Center. PDI/ JOAN S BONDOC

MANILA, Philippines — Jylyn Nicanor took off her mask then broke down in tears.

In the most dramatic of finishes, Nicanor on Thursday delivered the Philippines’ first fencing gold medal in the 30th Southeast Asian Games, sending the packed crowd at World Trade Center into delirium.

Buoyed by the hometown fans, Nicanor rallied to stun Indonesia’s Diah Permatasari, 15-14, in women’s individual sabre.

Permatasari was also left in tears but in distress after blowing a 14-13 edge. She also squandered an 8-5 advantage heading into the last round.

The Filipino fencers improved their medal haul to one gold, two silvers and three bronzes.