So I participated in my first fencing competition last night. It was an unsanctioned beginners epee tournament. It was fun. I was however surprised at how nervous I was. I arrived 15 minutes early which was not really enough time to get ready and warm up.

We did two different pools. First it was two pools of six. I felt like I had totally forgotten how to fence and got beat buy a couple of fencers that I felt I could have defeated. The second round of pools were 3 pools …

So I’ve been chomping at the bit to do some fencing and see what I actually learned at the clinic. Last night was my first chance. We are doing scheduled painting and cleaning at the club this week to get everything ship shape for the new season, so we haven’t had class or open fencing.

Well all in all I felt pretty good about my fencing. I definitely felt more confident. I am using my feet and parries for defense and it definitely helps. However, I really need to work on …

OK, So on day two I was prepped with water and Tylenol prior to starting and yes I was soar.

So we covered a lot on Sunday but it was a slightly shorter day.

We spent a lot of time on ripostes and remises.

We basically practiced 4 to 5 different ways to attack.

1. Changing your attack speed.

2. Feint/Deceive.

3. Changing your line.

4. Changing the start of your attack.

5. Running away with confusing parries and then using a direct attack.

Basically we did drills using these methods. We repeated the same moves two or more …

Well the weekend is over and with it the Copeland Clinic. Yes I learned a lot. And I took some notes so I could remember it all.

On Saturday We covered a lot!

1. Basics of beats and priority. Basically we did a drill that involved one person beating the others blade and taking the priority. That person was then the attacker until the other fencer took back the priority. I realized that I was planting my foot every time I went to beat. I need to work on separating my blade …

I am taking a two day clinic this weekend with Gary Copeland. I am very excited. I am hoping to learn a lot and get some skills incorporated into my repertoire. I am hoping it won’t be too overwhelming that I can’t remember it all.

I also tried foil for the first time a week or so ago and I am intrigued. I am think about trying more foil. I really like the foil sword. It is lighter and more flexible and fun to flick. Oh and it sounds cool too. …