AFC #3 Perth WA 2022 Teams
Congratulations to Sword Fighters Australia Team Foil
Winners in Perth
T.Reynolds, M.Faria and C.Bosnic win Club Teams Challenge
🥂🍾
Fencing commentary, coaching, services and products from Chris Jones
AFC #3 Perth WA 2022 TeamsCongratulations to Sword Fighters Australia Team Foil Winners in Perth T.Reynolds, M.Faria and C.Bosnic win Club Teams Challenge 🥂🍾 AFC #1 Sydney March 2022Australian Fencing Circuit Sydney March 2022 Open Individual Mens Foil: Gold S.Douglas NSW, Silver J.Morris NSW, Bronze N.Zeitoun Vic, Bronze Y.Fontain NSW. Womens Foil: Gold G.Salmas Vic, Silver V.Hull NSW, Bronze M.Muralidharan Vic, Bronze T.Lukins NSW. Mens Epee: Gold A.English Vic, Silver L.Crook Qld, Bronze L.Yang NSW, Bronze J.Downes WA. Womens Epee: Gold G.Janse Van Rensburg NSW, Silver A.Nutt NSW, Bronze S.Scott NSW, Bronze E.Principe NSW. Mens Sabre: Gold S.Andrew NSW, Silver E.Hoarau WA, Bronze Y.Shim NSW, Bronze C.Hely NSW. Womens Sabre: Gold Z.Djamirse NSW, Silver G.Hardge NSW, Bronze Y.Zou NSW, Bronze M.Yi Du NSW.
Extraordinary times2022, we start the recovery from Covid and Russia invades Ukraine.. Extraordinaty times. Fie President Usmanov resigns under pressure from Western nations on Russian oligarchs. Russian and Belarussian athletes banned from competition.
We hope and believe in a peaceful world..
Lets hope we can return to peaceful and better times..
DummyAnother great idea as a dummy, with adjustable blade height, and target zones. Dummy IdeasHere’s a few other ideas for target practice.
Using a ladder is a good “back” for the dummy and allows manoeuvrability, indoors a coatrack is handy too.
Can use different ideas and works for alternate target practice too ie Epee.
Fencing Remote TrainingHere’s a great idea for those in isolated situations still wanting training ideas.. Courtesy of Ben Peggs Instagram..
The M.A.S.KWe are proud to announce the release of all 3 versions of the M.A.S.K (Multipurpose Adjustable Scoring Kit)
Version 1: Training on your own – similar to a weapons tester, (With FIE 14 millisecend timing). Testing your own foils and bodywires, Using as a light system for hitting a target board. (Which can also be purchased through Sword Fighters Australia). Using in a lesson to accurately judge hits landed correctly. Regular Price $80
Version 2: Adding a M.A.S.K Light system to your regular mask, allows for hits to be seen on the front of your fencing mask without looking sideways at a box. Regular Price $120, or for only an additional $40 if you already purchased version 1.
Version 3: The complete system, included with updated software and the M.A.S.K Light system, allows the user to fence with available off target and on target lame hits. Regular Price $200, Or for the updating price if you have purchased a Version 1 or Version 2 M.A.S.K System.
For more details email chris@swordfightersaustralia.com Contact Chris 0409 013 171. Video coming soon. the M.A.S.K & Target BoardNEW! We have released The M.A.S.K
Australian owned and manufactured Fencing Specific Tester. Aptly named the M.A.S.K. “Multi-purpose Adjustable Scoring Kit” The M.A.S.K was designed as a simplified system to train with another person. #1 Plug your bodywire in, and attach to your Lame #2 Set your designed colour either Red or Green (different to your opponent). #3 Test the Target and Fence! The referee can see the lights flash when you hit, everyone hears the buzzers. Set with 14milliseconds as per Foil FIE Rules, creating a realistic bout. or Handy simply as a weapons tester or training tool when you don’t have a piste! Presented in a custom case with simple operating instructions for only $80
Order your M.A.S.K today.. Download the M.A.S.K download form.
Presented in a custom case with simple operating instructions for only $80 Download Instructions M.A.S.K FOIL TEST TRAIN FENCE DEVICE OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 2
0409 013 171 ………………………………………………………
Combine The M.A.S.K with a ‘target board’ for full on training ~! $120 including your own personal labelled M.A.S.K order now for christmas and ready for 2019..!
The M.A.S.KNEW!
We have finally released The M.A.S.K !
…..
Australian Owned and Manufactured Fencing Specific Tester. Aptly named The M.A.S.K. “Multi-purpose Adjustable Scoring Kit”
The M.A.S.K was designed as a simplified system to train with another person. #1 Plug your bodywire in, and attach to your Lame #2 Set your designed colour either Red or Green (different to your opponent). #3 Test the Target and Fence!
The referee can see the lights flash when you hit, everyone hears the buzzers.
Set with 14 milliseconds as per Foil FIE Rules, creating a realistic bout. or Handy simply as a weapons tester or training tool when you don’t have a piste!
Order your M.A.S.K today.. Download the M.A.S.K download form.
Presented in a custom case with simple operating instructions for only $80 Download Instructions M.A.S.K FOIL TEST TRAIN FENCE DEVICE OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS 2
0409 013 171
AFF National Championships 16-20th November, Melbourne 2018National Championships – Melbourne 2018 Weapons check 1 hour prior to each event Friday 16th 9 Womens Epee 9:15 Mens Sabre Womens Epee Teams 1:30 Veteran Sabre Veteran Sabre Teams Saturday 17th 8:30 Mens Epee 12 Mens Sabre Teams 1 Veteran Men and Women Epee Sunday 18th 8:30 Mens Epee Teams 9 Womens Foil 12:30 Veterans Mens & Womens Epee Teams 2 Womens Sabre Monday 19th 8:30 Womens Foil Teams 9 Mens Foil Mens Foil Teams >8 12 Womens Sabre Teams Tuesday 20th 9 Veteran Mens Foil 9:15 Veteran Womens Foil Veteran Foil Teams 2 Mens Foil Teams <8 for more details – link
AFC #4 Veterans Sydney 2018Mens Foil: 1 A.Tyschenko NSW, 2nd V.Newton NSW, =3rd P.Osvath Vic, =3rd A.Reynolds Vic. Womens Epee: 1 S.Osvath NSW, 2nd A.Nutt NSW, =3rd J.Schortmann Qld, =3rd M.Yeung NSW. Mens Epee: 1 T.Song NSW, 2nd D.Zatselyapin WA, =3rd G.Cladera Qld, =3rd C.Nonis NSW. Womens Sabre: 1 M.Yi Du NSW, 2nd M.Yeung NSW, =3rd C.Bond Vic, =3rd H.Jordan NSW. Mens Sabre: 1 P.Miller NSW, 2nd R.Vintila NSW, =3rd M.Treasure Vic, =3rd D.Wheeler NSW. Womens Foil: 1 J.Lyaschenko NSW , 2nd A.Ballard NSW, =3rd J.Bonney-Millett Qld, =3rd A.Nutt NSW. Sydney AFC #4 2018Mens Foil: 1 J.Morris NSW, 2 S.Douglas NSW, =3rd T.Reynolds Vic, =3rd L.Webber Vic. Mens Epee: 1 K.Radford Vic, 2nd M.Morris NSW, =3rd L.Crook QLD, =3rd D.Yates Vic. Womens Epee: 1 J.Gundry GBR, 2nd L.Gemmell NSW, =3rd C.C.Burton NSW, =3rd K.Wang NSW. Womens Sabre: 1 S.Auty Vic, 2nd C.Fox-Harding NSW, =3rd L.Cao Vic, =3rd S.Webster NSW. Mens Sabre: 1 M.Kang KOR, 2nd Y.Shim NSW, =3rd A.Douglas NSW, =3rd N.Pastore FRA (NSW). Womens Foil: 1 G.Salmas Vic, 2nd E.Marotta Vic, =3rd M.Muralidharan Vic, =3rd K.Kwa NSW.
AFC #3 Veterans Perth 2018Mens Foil: 1 P.Barry SA, 2nd P.Osvath Vic, =3rd J.Aloi WA, =3rd M.Prince NSW. Womens Epee: 1 N.Ferguson SA, 2nd M.Yeung NSW, =3rd C.Murphy ACT, =3rd M.Nicholson-Biggs Vic. Mens Epee: 1 A.Paxman WA, 2nd P.Osvath Vic, =3rd B.Emmanual WA, =3rd D.Kurukchi WA. Womens Sabre: 1 M.Yeung NSW, 2nd H.Jordan NSW, =3rd E-K.Gulland WA, =3rd C.Sopru SA. Mens Sabre: 1 D.Wheeler NSW, 2nd S.Johnson WA, =3rd D.Kneale WA, =3rd G.Mckay ACT. Womens Foil: 1 J.Bonney-Millett Qld , 2nd I.Park WA, =3rd S.Newton NSW, =3rd J.Skerman WA. Asian Championships 2018Team Results Mens Foil: 1 KOR, 2nd HKG, 3rd JAP, 4th AUS. Womens Foil: 1 CHI, 2nd KAZ, 3rd UZB, 4th KOR, 9th AUS. Mens Epee: 1 CHI, 2nd KAZ, 3rd UZB, 4th KOR, 10th AUS. Womens Epee: 1 KOR, 2nd JAP, 3rd CHI, 4th HKG, 12th AUS Mens Sabre: 1 CHI, 2nd IRI, 3rd KOR, 4th JAP, 13th AUS Womens Sabre: 1 CHI, 2nd KOR, 3rd KAZ, 4th HKG.
Individual Events Mens Foil: 1 Cheunh HGK, 2nd Heo KOR, =3rd Huang CHI, =3rd Ha KOR. 15 S.Douglas AUS, 17 C.Nagle AUS, 23 N.Fitzgerald AUS, 25 L.Webber AUS (/79). Womens Foil: 1 Kikuchi JAP, 2nd Jeon KOR, =3rd Nam KOR, =3rd Fu CHI. 16 F.Clarke AUS, 25 E.Marotta AUS, 43 C.DAniel AUS, 55 A.Kwag AUS (/64). Mens Epee: 1 Jung KOR, 2nd Alexanin KAZ, =3rd Fong HKG, =3rd Kano JAP, 25 A.Burgun AUS, 36 K.Radford AUS, 55 J.Downs AUS, 70 J.Shelley AUS (/85). Womens Epee: 1 Kong HKG, 2nd Kang KOR, =3rd Hsieh HKG, =3rd Lee KOR, 19 E.Patten AUS, 22 A.Kotevski AUS, 23 D.Gu AUS, 45 A.Deveraux AUS (/65). Mens Sabre: 1 B.Gu KOR, 2nd J.Kim KOR, =3rd J.Kim KOR, =3rd A.Pakdaman IRI, 47 W.Campbell, 49 Z.Leonard, 51 J.Boyd Hoare, 60 J.Dick (/67). Womens Sabre: 1 Kim KOR, 2nd Qian CHI, =3rd Choi KOR, =3rd Lam HKG, 37 S.Auty AUS (/57).
AFC 2 Robyn Chaplin – Adelaide 2018 VeteransVeteran Men Epee: 1 A.Paxman WA, 2nd D.Ferguson SA, =3rd N.Nutt ACT, =3rd M.Thompson Vic. Veteran Womens Epee: 1 N.Ferguson SA, 2nd S.Osvath NSW, =3rd J.Schortmann NSW, =3rd M.Yeung NSW. Veteran Womens Foil: 1 J.Lyaschenko NSW, 2 J.Bonney-Millett, =3rd A.Ballard NSW, =3rd Y.Qian SA. Veteran Mens Foil: 1 A.Tyschenko NSW, 2 N.Nutt ACT, =3rd M.Best Vic, =3rd R.Purdie NSW. Veteran Womens Sabre: 1 M.Du NSW, 2nd H.Jordan NSW, =3rd E.Gulland WA, =3rd C.Murphy ACT. Veteran Mens Sabre: 1 D.Wheeler NSW, 2nd S.Johnson WA, =3rd C.Smith ACT, =3rd D.Kneale WA En PointeAustralian Developed wireless system! Congrats to EnPointe.. The New Australian Wireless system coming out of Melbourne. For more details link: au.enpointefencing.com
Referee Hand SignalsHand Signals for Refereeing. Download Link in French: fie-hand-signal-document.pdf Download Link in English: Hand Signals Australian Mens Foil Team Receives ASC FundingFantastic News for the Aussie Mens foil team receiving funding for 2018. Details on the link to AFF Link AFC #1 Brisbane Veteran Championships 2018Veteran Men’s Sabre: 1 S.Johnson WA, 2 D.Wheeler NSW, =3 C.Smith ACT, =3 R.Vintila NSW. Veteran Men’s Epee: : 1 D.Yatselzipin WA, 2 B.Charlesworth Vic, =3 L.Cartillier QLD, =3 P.Osvath Vic. Veteran Women’s Sabre: 1 M.Y.Du NSW, 2 M.Yeung NSW, =3 H.Jordan NSW, =3 L.Porter WA. Veteran Women’s Epee: 1 S.Osvath NSW, 2 N.Ferguson SA, =3 M.Nicolson-Biggs VIC, =3 J.Seggie NSW. Veteran Women’s Foil: 1 J.Lyachenko NSW, 2 J.Bonney-Millet QLD, =3 J.Allardice VIC, =3 A.Ballard NSW. Veteran Men’s Foil: 1 A.Tyschenko NSW, 2 A.Reynolds NSW, =3 M.Hoeller VIC, =3 V.Newton NSW.
For more info go to ausfencing.org AFC #1 Open Championships Brisbane 2018Men’s Sabre: 1 E.Pastore NSW, 2 J.Siu NSW, =3 N.Pastore NSW, =3 J.Snell NSW. Men’s Epee: : 1 A. English VIC, 2 D.Yates VIC, =3 K.Radford VIC, =3 J.Downes WA. Women’s Sabre: 1 S.Auty VIC, 2 S.Webster NSW, =3 M.Black VIC, =3 C.Taylor NSW. Women’s Epee: 1 M.Andersen NSW, 2 L.Tausan Vic, =3 E.Halls VIC, =3 L.Gemell NSW. Women’s Foil: 1 E.Muralidharan VIC, 2 E.Marotta VIC, =3 V.Hull NSW, =3 F.Clarke NSW. Men’s Foil: 1 T. Reynolds VIC, 2 N.Fitzgerald VIC, =3 L.Webber VIC, =3 S.Mooney Grand NSW.
For more info go to ausfencing.org New Session @ FirbankHappy to announce a New Fencing program commencing at Firbank Girls on Wednesday nights in term 2 2018. Firbank Grammar School Gate 7, Middle Crescent Brighton Wednesday’s 7pm Dance Studio please contact Chris 0409 013 171 chris@swordfightersaustralia.com Veterans Squad 2018Training Time: Thursday Nights @ State Fencing Centre 6:-8:30 Any athlete wishing to participate, please contact chris@swordfightersaustralia.com Chris Jones 0409 013 171
Session : 2nd February, come along and join the squad: Skill Distance fencing &2hit points, 1 point blade contact. Footwork session 6:00 : Advance & retreat 3 laps, step Lunge 8 laps, at least 6 Lunges per lap, 1 lunge – step back fleche, step back circle parry Prime(1) riposte, 1 lap left handed, 1 lap right handed, 1 lap step lunge, 1 lap step parry Fleche. Next Session: 9th February. Fencing Victoria has the Calendar online for local competitions this year @ 6:30 Level 1, 204-206 Arden St North Melbourne. Public transport:* by train (closest station is North Melbourne -10 minute walk down Laurens Street)* by Tram Closest stop is No 15 on Abbotsford Street on route 57 -8 minute walk down Arden Street. Proudly supporting VicVets…
If you’d like any weapons fixed; David Hubbard is in the business of repair : email David
Fencing Victoria CalendarUpdated 2018 Calendar Link: http://websites.sportstg.com/get_file.cgi?id=36383416
14/2/18 The Fencer“THE FENCER” Movie – THE FENCER will be released in selected independent cinemas around Melbourne (and Australia) from Thursday 24 November, and will screen through until Christmas. ABOUT THE FILM: THE FENCER is set in post-WWII Europe, and is a powerful tale of love and sacrifice, based on the true story of Endel Nelis who established a Fencing school in Estonia. It was a Golden Globe and Academy Award selection earlier this year. A trainler can be viewed at http://www.palacefilms.com.au/thefencer THE FENCER will be screening in four cinemas: – City – Kino Cinemas, 45 Collins St, Melbourne – Brighton- Palace Brighton Bay Cinema, 294 Bay St Brighton – Carlton – Cinema Nova, 380 Lygon St, Carlton – Sth Yarra – Palace Cinema Como, cnr Toorak Rd & Chapel St, Sth Yarra Fencing MasksFencing.Net has recently released an article on purchasing Fencing Masks.. Really good article to read if your interested. State Veterans Squad – Melbourne Fencing CentreTraining Time: Thursday Nights 6:30-8:30 Any athlete wishing to participate, please contact chris@swordfightersaustralia.com Chris Jones 0409 013 171
Session : 3rd Decmber, come along and join the squad: Skill: Point in Line, Derobe. Next Session: Dember 10th. NB Vets Dinner to follow.. Fencing Victoria has the Calendar online for local competitions this year @ 6:30 Level 1, 204-206 Arden St North Melbourne. Public transport:* by train (closest station is North Melbourne -10 minute walk down Laurens Street)* by Tram Closest stop is No 15 on Abbotsford Street on route 57 -8 minute walk down Arden Street.
Proudly supporting VicVets…
If you’d like any weapons fixed; David Hubbard is in the business of repair : email David
Vale – Joseph D’OnofrioIt is with great sadness that Fencing has lost an iconic coach from our midst. Joseph D’Onofrio O.A.M, Founder and Maestro at Fioretto FC. Vale Jo.. comments below Fencing Victoria iPhone AppFor more details follow the link to Fencing Victoria to download the new App for iPhones. Entertainment Book 2014Sword Fighters Australia is selling the Entertainment book, if you have seen it before, its a great way to save on entertainment and restaurents etc with lots of discount vouchers.
$65 each book, usually pays for itself after 3 restaurant trips! if you’d like more information or would like to order one..let me know.. chris@swordfightersaustralia.com
State Veterans Squad – Melbourne Fencing CentreTraining Time: Thursday Nights 6:30-8:30 Any athlete wishing to participate, please contact chris@swordfightersaustralia.com Chris Jones 0409 013 171
Session : 23rd January, come along and join the squad: Skill: Teams matches! Next Session: January 3oth. Here is the list of available Veterans Competitions for this year courtesy of the AFF: Download Veterans Schedule 2014 @ 6:30 Level 1, 204-206 Arden St North Melbourne. Public transport:* by train (closest station is North Melbourne -10 minute walk down Laurens Street)* by Tram Closest stop is No 15 on Abbotsford Street on route 57 -8 minute walk down Arden Street.
Proudly supporting VicVets…
Sword Fighters Australia ProductsSword Fighters Australia Products for the home or office! Popular and selling upon demand! For Prices and ordering please email : info@swordfightersaustralia.com Download the SFA Products Order Form Corporate EventsChristmas Breakup Parties or events? Download photo campaign swordfighters-01.jpg swordfighters-02.jpg swordfighters-03.jpg swordfighters-04.jpg What makes a good “Athletes Parent” ?Great article on www.thepostgame.com on what makes an Athletes Parent a “Good Parent” Interesting read, check it out.. Link Australian FIE RefereeCongratulations to David Baker for his continued success in refereeing in Europe for the FIE, AFF Fencing Development Survey 2010The AFF is calling for your thoughts on the development of fencing. Interested athletes, parents, coaches, sports minded people your ideas would be useful so make yourself heard! Sword Fighter Christmas PresentsNow is a great time to start thinking about Christmas Presents… Fencing Christmas Presents!We have Plastic Masks and Foils (Red or Blue) Nasycon Replica equipment for sale.$250 for 2 sets.. For more details email chris@swordfightersaustralia.com State Veterans SquadTraining Schedule for the State Veterans Squad Training Time: Thursday Nights 6:30-8:30 Any athlete wishing to participate, please contact: Chris Jones: 0409 013 171, veterans@fencingvictoria chris@swordfightersaustralia.com Session : September 16th completed 14 participantsTechnique Skill: Poule Matches. FYI here is an interesting book found on Amazon : Link “over 40 martial arts” These sessions are for all 3 weapons. You need only participate in your preferred weapon.. Fencing Victoria on YoutubeYesterdays Hero’s….. Foxtel Stars of Before the Game’s segment “Yesterdays Hero’s” suited up in a Fencing Challenge. Youtube link Here Community Sabre SessionIf you or a friend have wanted to learn Sabre and are in the local area of Nunawading, check out; Sabre Sessions 7-9pm Friday Night email:: lisa@riposte.com.au Australian National ChampionsAttached is a file of the Australian National Champions since records were kept in AustraliaAustralian Champions : National Champions Fantasy Female Sword Fighter NovelA new Book has been released about a blacksmith Swordfighter Fantasy Novel. for more info check out the blog on the Forum Page ForumWant to get in touch with other Fencers and discuss those all important Piste issues? Well join the growing list of members and bloggers on… www.swordfightersaustralia.com/forum new discussion topic: Link Fencing Videos and DVD’sCheck out fencingmulitmedia.com for unique and interesting fencing dvd’s. Fencing.net also has some great books Fencing.net link Wuxi Uniforms maybe BannedChinese Fencing Brand (Wuxi / Jiang) said to be banned by the European Union. The EU’s Consumer Affairs division (under report: “RAPEX”) has safety concerns with its FIE clothing protective strength. Wuxi has apparently recalled its line with EU officials banning the sale of the “Beijing FIE 800N Jacket & Beijing FIE 800N Breeches“. for more read link Fencing.net The FIE hasn’t come out with a statement, although the report has been out for 2 weeks +. NB: The FIE has allowed the equipment to be worn. Wuxi Uniforms – Australian Situation The EU’s Consumer Affairs Division has jurisdiction over the sale of products, and their description, in Europe. The Australian equivalent is the ACCC, which governs trade practices issues (“misleading and deceptive” product claims). It is believed that a competing European fencing equipment supplier initiated the EU Consumer Affairs Division action. The FIE has jurisdiction over the use of equipment, and tests sample fabric to confirm 800N compliance. The EU Consumer Affairs Division tested finished uniforms for 800N compliance. So, here is the distinction: currently, the FIE will continue to allow the use of Wuxi uniforms, as they have passed their testing. However, you will not be able to purchase Wuxi uniforms in Europe. This means that if they are purchased elsewhere but used in Europe, this will be okay as well. The only relevance any of this has to Australian fencing is that the FIE has still validated the Wuxi uniform material, and Australia falls under the FIE rules. However, if you are in any way concerned about your safety when using the Wuxi brand (or any brand in fact), then you should act accordingly. Sword Fighter RSS FeedIf you would like to be kept up to date with Fencing news, Calendar updates, Competition Results, Forum Threads, Your Association News, Aussies Abroad, New Equipment etc. Register with the RSS Feed (Orange Square Symbol in Menu Bar above) Courtesy SwordFightersAustralia.com School Holiday ProgramWhat to do over the school holidays with the children? Gas Works Art Park has had the answer for a number of events now…. Sword Fighters classes for kids…… Download Program : Gasworks Flyer President Fencing VictoriaCongratulations to Simon Auty the new President of Fencing Victoria. Fencing ChampionsHistory is an important thing! Especially Fencing History, and prior to Sword Fighters Australia it hasn’t been available on the web. For updated : Australian Champions For: World / Olympic Champions Also: Australian Veteran Champions Link To Ausfencing Historical Fencing in AustraliaAt the AFF 2008 Nationals run in Sydney this week (1st December 08). A number of interesting articles have been accumulated on the history of Fencing in Australia. Here is one: An amusing article presumably written in the 1950’s on one of Sydney’s better known fencers….. Mr Clarke on the Cruel Sex Women are cleverer and crueller than men, says Tex Clarke, brawny, 40-year-old-fencing master at the Sydney Foils Club. Dark brown, with blue eyes, and bulging muscles, Mr. Clarke came in to see us during the week, wearing short khaki shorts and sandals. “Women are cruel because they have to bottle up their emotions. And when emotions are bottled up they fester horribly” he said. “Now if a woman could punch another woman on the nose occasionally, it would do her a lot of good.” Running a hand over his shapely brown legs, Mr. Clarke digressed:- ” I see you’re admiring my suntan. I spend every spare minute in the sun. Working indoors is like digging your own grave. Women are better Fencers than men because they are more cunning and because they simply love to fight. Timid little girls come to me to learn Fencing and after a few weeks at the game they become snarling hell-cats.” “Fencing seems to bring out the fight in them. I love to watch two women Fencing. They bare their teeth and glare at each other with cruel, diabolical expressions on their faces.” Mr. Clarke was born and educated in Edinburgh, Scotland. He came to Australia 15 years ago and served a number of years in the Australian Merchant Navy. “I took up Fencing as a young boy to speed up my boxing,” he said. “I soon fell in love with Fencing and abandoned my ambition to be a boxer. The thing I like about Fencing is that there is no danger of getting hurt.” Newspaper Article and Author unknown. Sword Fighter Gift VoucherWant to give a great gift idea to a friend / family member – one of those strange “non-fencing” people!? Well the opportunity is here. www.giftvoucherworld.com.au has SwordFighter Sessions available! Birthday Presents …. Christmas Gifts …. Anniversary Ideas….. Thankyou’s …. Fitness Fanatics….. or just for fun. Fencing Club Member RetentionMain issue… how do we keep the max people in fencing..? If you answer these questions and feel there could be improvement….. this might be an easy way to encourage fencers and more importantly VOLUNTEERS to stay within the sport.!! For more info go to Vic Sport for important information on sporting clubs or link to your location. or AUSPORT Link Psychological Skills Training ManualFencing.Net has a new downloadable Manual (for Purchase $20USD) After interviewing numerous top fencers a Psychological Training Manual has been produced on the important mental game of Fencing Check it out Link New Leon Paul Foil MaskLeon Paul has entered the market with its Foil Lame/Bib Mask called the X-Change Click to Visit Leon Paul site Video The Leon Paul Catalogue Fencing Website UpdatesCouple of Website updates under Links: Commonwealth Juniors. Also Association Links: Commonwealth Fencing Federation. Fencing Victoria Online SurveyFencing Victoria is undertaking a Survey on participation in competitions and experience and assesment of the Competitions Calendar as it stands and how it may be structured in the future. Make sure you express your opinions…. Link (When requested, enter the keyword – steplunge ) The online survey closes Nov 7, 2008 Active After School CommunitiesThe Australian Government in association with the Australian Sports Commission runs sessions for children in After Care. If you’d like to be involved in running a class for Fencing, please contact me: chris@swordfightersaustralia.com AASC Link Deakin University SportsFencing has ‘taken off’ at Deakin University Burwood Campus in 2008. If you would like to be a part of it.. Download Flyer: Deakin Uni Flyer School Holiday ProgramChildrens Parties or School Holiday programs? Take your pick! Sword Fighters Australia Caters to it…. This Testimonial Provided by an External Link Wine OrdersIf you enjoy quality wine at a great price, don’t miss this fantastic opportunity! Order Form: The Fencer Wine Link to NSW FA “Riposte” WineSFA contributors came across a unique wine brand….. Tim Knappstein is a renowned Australian Winemaker his Answer is “The Riposte” 2007 and 2008 vintage. A great tasting Australian Wine: with titles like The Sabre, The Foil & The Rapier its sure to be a hit. for more information check out: http://www.timknappstein.com.au/wine.html World Masters 2009It is noted that Fencing will not be a part of the 2009 World Masters Games, hence the removal of its listing on www.swordfightersaustralia.com Commonwealth ChampionsHistory is an important part of a sports culture. Fencing has one of the longest. Here for the first time is the list of Commonwealth Fencing Champions [Commonwealth Fencing Champions] Olympic & World Champions and Australian Champions can be found on the General Page. For 1974 results – Please update via email chris@swordfightersaustralia.com New Childrens Fencing MovieThe spiderwick Chronicles is to be released in Australia March 27, 2008. A fantasy world comes alive and one of the heroine’s has some fencing skills. Red Letter NightIt was a RED event at the FV dinner friday night, the Malvern Banquet Hall was a-blaze of red shirts, ties, ribbons, shoes and cocktail dresses. An enjoyable evening was celebrated by everyone culminating in the celebration of the “60th years” for John Fethers, Joseph D’Onofrio, and Harry Sommerville. Thanks to Thunderstruck Performance Gear for donating the prizes, which the 3 recipients will receive. Thanks also to the organisers especially Genevieve Hartley, creating a successful event even with the 30+degree Melbourne weather.! Here’s to a great year of Fencing. International Olympic CommitteeI.O.C. Website has quite good relevant information on Fencing, at this years 2008 Beijing games. Read more IOC Website: Modern Fencing on the BBCThe BBC has an interesting article on the development of Electronic Fencing, the art of the (Foil) “Flick” and ways to defend against it. For more information read BBC Fencing Although the article was written apparently in 2003.. it is still relevant. Enjoy. Fencing – A HistoryThe history of FencingFencing first originated in preparation for duels between men for warfare. Throughout human history, man has fought with weapons. When technology changed so did the weapon and consequently the tactics. A picture of a fencing “match” was uncovered on an Egyptian temple dating back to approx 1190 B.C. The Babylonians, andcient Greeks, Persians, and Romans all had some type of fencing. The use of armour during the Middle Ages made swordsmanship almost obsolete. The broadsword was in regular use but caused minor damage against armour, it only resulted in a hacking weapon requiring brute strength rather than skill, making armour almost redundant. The development of firearms brought swordplay into prominence during the 15th century. Soldiers learnt skills with the sword, and fencing also emerged as a pastime for the nobility. Fencing masters organized guilds, which taught secret moves to students. The swords of this period were heavy, more effective in cutting your opponent with the edge. The sword was a defensive weapon against thieves, and included tactics such as wrestling holds and disarming or immobilizing with tricks to set up for the killing blow. Fencing as a “sport” requiring skill and speed, began when the longer and lighter rapier was developed during the 16th century in Under Louis XIV in A version of the court sword, the Foil, was developed for practice. Another type of sword, the colichemarde, had been created for dueling. The blade had a triangular cross-section, with slightly concave sides to reduce weight without reducing strength. The colichemarde evolved into the modern Epee. The Three musketeers used this single weapon style defending the King and thus being the best fighters in the Kings guard. The third fencing weapon, the Sabre, was introduced into The Sabre was a very heavy, curved sword, but changed into a lighter weapon with only a slight bend in Italy, late in the 19th century for dueling and fencing. The modern Sabre is straight, like the Foil and Epee, but it still retains one cutting edge which can be used to make hits on an opponent. Olympic Fencing Fencing one of the first Olympic sports that has been on every modern Olympic program since 1896. The Men’s Foil and Sabre events were on the 1896 program and the Epee was added in 1900. Because of major disagreements about the rules, The Women’s Foil competition commenced in the Olympic program in 1924. Only Foil was fenced for many years, until the Epee was added in 1992, and in Athen in 2004 an American won the first ever gold medal won for the USA. There are 3 different sets of rules for the three weapons, relating to the differences in technique evolved out of their history. In Foil and Epee, a touch can only be made only with the point. The entire body is valid target for the Epee, but in Foil a touch is scored only on the torso. In Sabre, a hit is made with the edgo or tip, only on the torso, arms and mask. Fencing due to its speed is a difficult sport to judge, since it’s necessary to determine, first, whether a hit was made and, second, which came first when the two fencers score hits almost simultaneously. The electrical Epee was introduced at the 1936 Olympics to score hits automatically. Electronic Foil was added in Melbourne in the 1956 Olympics, and Sabre at the 1992 Olympics. Fencing Clothing Glove – The glove protects the weapon hand (the rear hand doesn’t need a glove). The glove provides a non slip gripping surface. Jacket – The heavy protective garment that protects the torso. Made from heavy canvas, quilted cotton, or Kevlar, fencing jackets are usually closed with zips. The front of the jacket dips into a v-shaped groin protector, with a strap that runs between the legs to hold the groin protector in place. You “step into” a fencing jacket. Plastron – The added protection under a jacket, in the form of a single or double-sleeved Kevlar undershirt. Required for most competitions Chest protector — Molded plastic breastplate, worn by women under the jacket Mask – The wire-mesh helmet of fencing. Never fence without your mask, as modern fencing weapons are predominantly dangerous only to uncovered eyes. The wire mesh is darkened on the inside, to allow your eyes to focus past the grill. Breeches – Suspender-based fencing pants. Required for high-level (national and international) competitions. Not required for training or classes Bib – The heavy fabric below the mask, which protects your neck. Socks – Not unlike Football socks the Fencing sock is knee high and traditionally white, Most Epee socks have a reinforced panel in the front shin section of the sock. Shoes — Like every other sport, Fencing has its own shoes. Light and flat soled with a rolled heel. Modern Fencing Unlike historic battles modern fencers don’t harm their opponents but try to hit their opponent as many as 15 times and thus require more technical and tactical depth. Fencing consists of 2 competitors who face off in a “bout”, they compete to score points on each other with their weapons. To beat an opponent, a fencer must use bladework, footwork, tactics and strategy. Fencing bouts are characterized by flurries of speed, highly aerobic movement, and lightning-fast blade movements. Fencing WeaponsFencing has three weapons, each derived from an historical ancestor. Modern fencing weapons are lighter, safer sporting versions of the real thing All weapons used in Fencing range from 90 – 100cm long, and typically weigh under 500 grams. There are a set of requirements to which each weapon must conform, for reasons of safety and fairness. The Epee The SabreThe Sabre is descended from the curved cavalry sword. It has a basket-shaped hand-guard that completely covers the hand, and a blade which is Y-shaped in cross-section. Sabreurs often train to hit the opponent’s hand, since it is a close target, and the opponent’s head, since it is easy to hit with an edged weapon. The Foil The Foil is a synthetic weapon. It was originally designed by Fencing Masters as a lighter, safer training substitute for real weapons. The Foil has a small, round hand-guard and a blade that is rectangular in cross-section. Foilists train to hit the chest, but a school of technique is also built around hitting the opponent’s back with a move that bends the blade in a curve (the “flick”). Starting weapon When teaching fencing, instructors often start new fencers with the Foil. Because of its origin as a training weapon, the Foil comes with a set of rules, technique and conventions that translate easily to the Epee and Sabre. As students become comfortable with the concepts of fencing, they can switch to the other weapons. Many students choose to stay with Foil, however, and it is frequently the most popular weapon at tournaments. In recent times, high-level fencing has been increasingly taught by weapon specialists, and the “Foil-first” approach has been challenged by the successes of fencers who only ever fenced Sabre or Epee. The Winner is….?“And the Winner is?” SwordfightersAustralia is running a “Guess the Olympic Winners” Competition. Who is going to be the most successful country in Fencing at the Beijing Olympic Games. Do you have any inside knowledge? Email chris@swordfightersaustralia.com with your 1st, 2nd and 3rd; Rankings and medal numbers. Entries close 7/8/2008 (the day before the opening ceremony) The most correct entry at the end of the last day of competition will win a Swordfighter Prize. You’ve got to be in it to win it. AFF #1 T-shirtsTshirts were available to buy at AFF 1 in Melbourne (28-30 March) Information will be available soon on the website on new products available. Historical FencingSo what is historical fencing? Well here is a bit of a look at some historical fencing from youtube “Historical fencing shows in Sandomierz” Very well done and some scenes are quite difficult to recreate and look “realistic”. Fencing ChampionsHistory is an important thing! Especially fencing history, and up til now it hasn’t been available on the web. Olympic QualificationTo understand just how hard it is to qualify for the Olympics, especially in the 2 weapons chosen to not have a team event (Mens Foil and Womens Epee) in Beijing…. click here fencing.net Hopefully Fencing will be given the extra 2 gold medals for the team events in the future… World Veterans Competition Sydney 2007 – CongratulatedThe 2007 veteran world championships were held in sydney from 14-16th September. Over 200 fencers from 22 nations competed. The organizing committee and AFF president Helen Smith were thanked for the smooth running of the competition. article from “Escrime Internationale” No 61 12/2007. Fencing BookBook Recommendation “Escrime l’invention du Sport” author Gerard Six. A historical walk through ancient fencing from 1198BC! From Egyptian organized competitions through evolution up to the present day. Highly recommended. Fencing – Trivia QuizQ. What are the names of the weapons used in fencing? A. Foil, Epee, Sabre Q. What is the area that a fencing match is held on? A. “The piste’ ” Q. What is a fencing match called? A. A “Bout” Q. Was fencing one of the original modern Olympic sports? or when was fencing first introduced to the modern Olympics? A. Yes or 1896 Q. What are fencing pants called? A. Breeches Q. What is the metal jacket that foilists and sabreurs wear? A. “Lame’ ” Q. How many points win a bout? A. 5points in a poule bout, 15points in a direct elimination (D/E) bout. Q. What other Olympic sport uses one of the fencing weapons in its event? A. Modern Pentathlon uses Epee fencing, first to 1 hit. (other events; pistol shooting, equestrian show jumping, cross country running, swimming). Q. What is the French name for Fencing? A. “Escirme’ ” Q. What is the umpire in fencing called? A. The “President” or commonly The “Referee” Q. What is the target area in foil? A. The lame’ which covers only the torso (excludes arms, head, legs and the foil) Q. What is the target area in Epee? A. Every part of the fencers body (exludes the epee) Q. What is the target area in Sabre? A. The lame’ covering everthing above the waist (excludes the sabre) Q. How long in minutes does a poule bout last? A. 3 mins, (plus 1min, if scores tied, first point wins. Q. How long can a direct elimination D/E bout last? A. 9 mins, (plus 1 min, if scores tied, first point wins. Q. Which hand can you use in fencing? A. Only your weapon hand – left or right. Q. What is the physical stance in fencing called? A. The en-garde stance. Q. 1 hit equals how many points? A. 1 point Q. What do fencers say when they get a point scored on them? A. ” Touche’ ” Q. What is a block called? A. A “Parry” Q. What is the powerful thrusting hitting action called? A. The “Lunge” Athens Fencing HighlightsCheck out the highlights video from Athens 2004. just a little something to get you in the mood for Beijing…. New Childrens Fencing MovieThe spiderwick Chronicles is to be released in Australia in February 2008. A fantasy world comes alive and one of the heroine’s has some fencing skills. CIP 2008 Foil CommentaryChallenge Internationale Paris – France :: January 25-26 2008 :: Sanzo ITA v Baldini ITA :: wireless final commentary. The final started off quite slowly with Baldini in control – the bout was quite static with neither Italian moving around much, more to Baldini’s liking. Every time that Sanzo would appear to be increasing speed or distance, Baldini would shuffle his back leg on tiptoe. Quite an effective move against someone he trains against. At the first break Baldini still had the lead 4-3 but Sanzo scored the final touch. [A little bit of insight to Baldinis style, having fenced him 3 years ago and observing his speed over a short distance with both hand and foot – this style was not in Sanzo’s best interest. Sanzo is obviously very fast, but Baldini is younger and improving all the time. His response time appears faster – maybe its youth]. After the break Sanzo came out and started to move more putting the left hander under a bit more pressure. With a challenge on the tv monitor available but unsuccessful, Sanzo started attacking more aggressively, something that good footwork and timing is essential for. [I tried, unsuccessfully points wise when I fenced Baldini, to push harder against him, and then run like the wind backwards to retreat. Both being left handed turned out to be an advantage to him as he could hit both of my shoulders comfortably. His counter six parry was lightening fast, again only repetition and timing can improve.]. The match then took another turn around. Baldini upped the tempo and scored an attack, a preparation attack, a counter attack, then a parry riposte for 4 in a row, and the lead 10-9, another riposte to Baldini and the lead is 11-9 at the 2nd break. [Confidence is massive in sport, fencing especially, if you feel confident you can overcome anything or hold on. Appearing confident is also a skill that each fencer must acquire. If your opponent thinks you’re vulnerable, you probably will be! Baldini is an incredibly confident fencer, no matter what situation he’s in he always appears confident. Naturally, trained, deserved, or experience its there, and he becomes a very powerful opponent at the other end of the piste.]. A successful challenge on the first point after the commencement extended Baldini’s lead to 12-9. Both fencers prodded and probed at each other. [very cautious and clever from Sanzo’s point of view, he couldn’t afford to lose more points, often bouts can totally change from this point]. Baldini responded equally well, with no desire to rush he picked of a point at the right time for 13-9. With the pressure off Baldini relaxed and scored with another disengage attack to get the lead 14-9, the final point was a lovely little riposte which gave Baldini the championship. [Pressure, perceived or actual, as in the final of the CIP or another world cup event, is something each fencer must determine a way to handle. Training as if the next point is the final touch of the match is a good method, it trains the brain and body to react without emotionally losing control or rushing.]. The final score of 15-9 was deceiving as to the closeness of the final and the subtleties of the skills of each fencer. But it was Andrea Baldini’s day and a new C.I.P champion for 2008. You can view the full footage of the final here on fencingchannel.tv Corporate EventsCorporate Sword Fighters A new experience for all types of corporate backgrounds. A unique safe and fun educational experience. Specifically designed safe and unbreakable fencing swords. Executive Education. Team Building. Sporting Activity. Internationally accredited Coaches and Instructors. For more details call 0409 013 171 Welcome!Welcome to Sword Fighters Australia, a new site dedicated to Foil, Epee and Sabre fencing in Australia. Be sure to check back in the coming weeks to find interviews, product reviews and competition commentary. Until then… Chris Jones |