Norfolk Fencers Take on the World: A Tale of Speed, Strategy, and Swordplay
In a thrilling display of precision and agility, two Norfolk fencers are gearing up to represent Great Britain at the upcoming Veteran World Championships in Bahrain. Michael Naulls and Sarah Tickner, both members of the Norfolk Fencing Club, are set to embark on their international debut after securing their spots through rigorous national qualifying events.
Naulls, a 41-year-old veteran, is competing in the foil category for men aged 40-49. He describes the experience as a culmination of a decade-long journey, stating, "It is an amazing opportunity, something that has taken me 10 years to achieve. It is incredible."
Tickner, 43, will grace the sabre category for women. Her enthusiasm is palpable as she shares her sentiments with BBC Look East, "I feel I have already won just getting there. It is a very competitive sport."
Naulls, a resident of Bungay in Suffolk, offers a unique perspective on the sport, "Your opponent is trying to out-think you, mentally, physically, and technically. It really is like chess, except this one can be done at 100mph."
The sport of fencing, a combat art involving swordplay, has a rich history, dating back to the birth of the modern Olympic movement in 1896. It is divided into three disciplines: foil, épée, and sabre, each with its own distinct blade and rules. Fencing demands a delicate balance of mental acuity, physical prowess, and technical skill.
Tickner, a Poringland resident near Norwich and the secretary of the Norfolk Fencing Club, shares her journey into the sport. She took up fencing "accidentally," driven by a desire to demonstrate to her son that nerves are an integral part of competition and that they can be overcome. "There's a real sense of camaraderie across the whole of the veteran fencing community, but also a gentle challenge in competition,"
Paul Stimpson, the coach guiding Naulls and Tickner, acknowledges the formidable challenge they face in Bahrain. The competition will pit them against ex-internationals, Olympians, and some of the world's best fencers. With 900 competitors, the event promises intense battles.
Stimpson expresses his pride in his students' achievements, "Sarah is heading there with a positive mindset. Hopefully, she might come away with a medal. He [Michael] has taken so well to the veteran scene. He's optimistic but realistic about his chances, as the field is so competitive."
The Norfolk Fencing Club stands to gain immensely from their success, as they prepare to showcase their skills on the global stage.
