BUDAPEST, April 17 (Xinhua) -- Four Chinese fencers advanced to the women's main draw on the opening day of the FIE Epee Grand Prix here on Friday.

China has sent 18 fencers - 10 men and eight women - to the competition. Xu Nuo, Li Shanshan, Yang Jingwen and Liu Chang secured their places in the women's round of 64.

"Our experienced athletes are aiming for podium finishes and higher world rankings ahead of the Olympic qualification, while younger fencers are expected to gain experience and refine their technique through high-level competition," said China's team leader Chen Jinghui.

The three-day event features men's and women's individual competitions, attracting a total of 356 male and 282 female fencers.

The men's qualification rounds will be held on Saturday, followed by the men's and women's individual bouts from the round of 64 to the finals on Sunday. ■