Packwood Fencers in Trophy battle

24th October, 2009

Over fifty fencers were locked in combat on Tuesday 13th October in the Sports Hall as Wrexham Fencing Club came to Packwood for their annual Weston/Norfolk Trophy match. With several fencers in the British rankings, both teams fancied their chances.

After half an hour or so, only the Girls had a clear lead. Olivia Wade-Smith scoring the most hits of the night, across the board, in a fearsome display that bodes well for her medal chances in the future. Our Epee team, unbeaten in four years, was struggling with only newcomer Archie Fetherstonhaugh making an impact. Freddie Houlker helped take the Boys' Foil closer than expected defeating all of his opponents - all the more remarkable because he was two years their junior.

The annual fixture is a fantastic opportunity for both teams to try out their 'new talent' and this year was no exception with children of all ages getting their first taste of outside competition. Rory Davies was outstanding, fencing all night without conceding a single hit against. The mighty 6s also played their part as Edward Don, Murray Robinson-Boulton, Zara Vickers and George Weston made sure that Packwood's youngest ever team was also undefeated.

With honours even, attention turned to the slashing and cries of the Sabre match. As expected the score line was tight, but despite Don, Adams and Stanton battling hard, it was the team from Wrexham that won the match by five hits and consequently retained the Weston/Norfolk Trophy.

Many thanks to the Kitchen staff for the lovely sticky cakes, the mums that helped with the tea, coffee and zips(!) and to all of our supporters on the night. A special thank you also, to Jessie Hunt who didn't fence this year but refereed expertly alongside two Coaches and Commonwealth and World Games level adult fencers - she did a better job than all of us of course! Thanks Jessie.

Results in full: