It’s open season for success for Chichester fencers

THE Sussex Open launched a new fencing season and entrants from all over Europe included a number from Chichester Fencing Club.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Oct 2014, 13:00 BST
Chi fencers Nicola Hull, Rebecca Mayle, Verity Hillier, Charlotte BeadleChi fencers Nicola Hull, Rebecca Mayle, Verity Hillier, Charlotte Beadle
Chi fencers Nicola Hull, Rebecca Mayle, Verity Hillier, Charlotte Beadle

In men’s epee, James Kirk, Tom Raymond Wells, Josh Briffett and Robin Elliot all fenced with passion, demonstrating examples of innovative fencing in this exciting sport.

Chichester’s women eppeists fought their way to medal successes. Kathy Evans secured seventh place in a competition that sees the top eight awarded medals but Charlotte Beadle, just 15 years old, gave an outstanding display of fencing.

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Elegant and calm, her precise blade work saw her take third place and the medal for best cadet after an extremely close knockout fight against the UK’s 39th seed Nicola Hull.

Not to be outdone, Chichester men’s foilists had a spectacular day. In an event that attracted some of the UK’s top fencers, Chichester fielded eight competitors: Josh Briffett, Tom Raymond Wells, Max Hooper, Robin Elliot, Isaac Jolley, Oscar O’ Hara, George Hendrie and Tom Hendrie.

Fourteen-year-old Jolley just missed out on a medal but O’Hara took fifth place in a very tough field. The incredible Hendrie brothers, however, swept through the competition in devastating style to face each other in the final.

George took the silver medal, and the medal for best cadet, but Tom emerged victorious, clearly demonstrating why he is now training on the Olympic pathway. It was an exciting victory for Chichester and a fantastic way to open the new season.

If you would like to try fencing, call coach Sharon Blackman on 01243 822753 or at [email protected]

Related topics:Europe