West Dorset Fencing Club's first championships. It was quite a coup for Shirley Parker, founder of the WDFC less than a year ago, when she persuaded Allan Jay MBE, six times world champion finalist, holder of two Olympic silver medals and Vice-President of the British Fencing Association, to become Honorary President of the Club. Allan kindly donated two championship trophies and was present at Sir John Colfox School, Bridport on Thursday 12th November to present them to the winners.
A year after Shirley (an ex-Olympic competitor herself) set up the club she found herself organising a championship event that spread over two recent evenings. “I was so excited to be in the position of having enough members advanced enough to compete, and the icing on the cake was Allan giving up his valuable time to present the awards” enthused Shirley.
Over the past year interest in the new club has been intense, with many adults and children at last having access to this unusual sport.
The men’s and junior titles were decided on the 5th November. Competition was fierce, and although it was fireworks night, no sparks were seen from the tips of the foils: concentration and agility were put to the test. The quickness of the footwork had to be seen to be believed. Isaac Goodwin eventually emerged victorious as men's champion and Alfie Conacher-Crow as junior champion.
The following week saw a serious and intensely fought series of battles between the ladies before Rosie Darkin won the championship.
On presenting Isaac Goodwin with his trophy, Allan said “I was thrilled and energised by your performance, well done”. He presented Rosie Darkin with the Ladies’ Championship rose bowl. Alfie Conacher-Crow received an engraved junior foil to keep. The runners-up were Ellie Madden, Damon Allen and Liam Cooper, who were each presented with a signed certificate by Shirley.
Allan Jay thanked Shirley for inviting him to the club, saying “I am so pleased to be involved in the first steps of this club. I am passionate about fencing and am thrilled to see younger children coming into the sport. Anyone can give it a try – it’s an energetic sport requiring quick reflexes and concentration, but no brute force”.
West Dorset Fencing Club meets on Thursday evenings from 6.30 onwards at Sir John Colfox School. Anyone who is interested in taking part can try a taster session prior to enrolment in 2010 (last night before hols 3/12/09 recommencing January 21st 2010) . Spectators are also extremely welcome.
