Australia’s Olympic pentathlon representatives Ed Fernon and Marina Carrier arrived in the Tokyo Olympic Village on Saturday night, and have got straight into their training, final preparations, and venue familiarisation.
Before leaving Australia, Marina was training away well in Canberra at the AIS. She has managed to put some recent injuries setbacks behind her and was feeling good. A special thanks from MPA to all the AIS coaches, medical and high-performance staff for their support of Marina. Unfortunately, due to COVID, Marina could not see family and friends before departing, but she has remained focused and ready to give her all in Tokyo.
Marina was hearing about the great results of the Aussie athletes in Tokyo and the great coverage but decided not to watch the Olympic action on the television and remain focused on her final preparations.
Ed Fernon has needed to be flexible with his final preparations, but all have gone well. He and coach Dean Gleeson had planned a training camp across south-east Queensland, with fencing competitions in Brisbane but these plans had to change at the last minute due to COVID travel restrictions. They then based themselves in Coffs Harbour for the next two weeks and got some great training in before fencing training in Newcastle, and final sessions in Sydney.
Ed has needed to be flexible with his final preparations, but all have gone well. He and coach Dean Gleeson had planned a training camp across south-east Queensland, with fencing competitions planned in Brisbane, but these plans had to change at the last minute due to COVID travel restrictions. Flexibility and adaptability have certainly been skillsets we are all getting used to through COVID!
Ed and coach Dean Gleeson then based themselves in Coffs Harbour for the next two weeks where they were fortunate to get in some great training before heading to Newcastle for the finishing touches on the fencing. The final preparation block has been based in Sydney, under strict COVID regulations. Another special thank you to Sydney University for their support of Ed and Dean in the ability to use their facilities under rigorous COVID protocols and procedures.
Ed gave us a quick update on the eve of departing for Tokyo.
Q: How have your final training sessions been?
A: Although we’ve had a few difficulties to navigate with the lockdown, preparation has been fantastic. I feel my coach Dean Gleeson has really got me peaking at the right time.
Q: What are your emotions ahead of flying to Tokyo?
A: I’m feeling really relaxed at the moment. It’s been great to spend time with my wife and kids over the last week and I’m really looking forward to representing Australia at my second Olympics.
Q : What are your thoughts on what you have been seeing from Tokyo?
A: Australia have been producing some amazing results, so I look forward to being a part of that environment. I’ve been watching a lot of the swimming and it was inspirational to watch Jess Fox win gold.
Ed and Marina have been quick to acknowledge all the coaches, training partners, family, friends and supporters who have helped them get to the Games. It takes years of dedication and support.
The pentathlon community has been a huge part of encouraging these great athletes to be their best. Modern Pentathlon Australia have been doing everything possible to support them, along with the AIS and AOC, on their journey to the start-line.
We wish Marina and Ed every success and a wonderful Games experience. And we are excited to see our sport showcased with all disciplines in the one venue.
Here is how you can follow all the action.
Tokyo 2020 Modern Pentathlon Schedule (all times AEST)
You can watch all the action online 7plus.com.au
Thursday August 5
Women’s Fencing Ranking Round: 2pm
Men’s Fencing Ranking Round: 530pm
Friday August 6 – Women’s Competition
Swimming: 3.30 – 4.pm (6 heats)
Fencing Bonus Round: 4.45pm
Show Jumping: 6.15pm
Laser-Run: 8.30pm
Saturday August 7 – Men’s Competition
Swimming: 3.30 – 4.pm (6 heats)
Fencing Bonus Round: 4.45pm
Show Jumping: 6.15pm
Laser-Run: 8.30pm
Latest Results and News
There is so much great Australian content on olympics.com.au and the @AUSOlympicTeam social channels. The MPA website and social media will also be providing regular updates.
Live results and information available on olympics.org
Sport Preview
The pentathlon competition in Tokyo is going to be sensational. The Tokyo Stadium, which hosted the Rugby Seven at Tokyo 2020 has been transformed to host all the disciplines in the one venue.
Learn about the Competition Format and the changes since the Rio Olympics