Orley Farm sent a small team of 9 to the European Youth Fencing Championships in Holland last weekend.
An early start and flight to Eindhoven, before continuing on to Wageningen in eastern Holland. Time to settle into our accommodation, before local sight-seeing and carbohydrate fuelled evening meal; all ready for the 2 day competition ahead.
Another early start and off to the venue. Despite some weapon breakages during the flight, a helpful armourer kept our spare weapons in good repair. This enabled us to maintain our edge and record numerous wins on day 1. Star of the day was former pupil Diva Raitatha, who came third in U14 girls epee. Not to be outdone Dimple quietly kept fencing and kept recording victories in a controlled session of fencing to finish a superb 3rd in U10 girls epee like her elder sister.
Sunday also saw the sabreurs take to the piste. Some fine performances enabled all boys to progress to the last 8. Unfortunately Sameer and Shyan met in the quarter finals, with Shyan being knocked out to finish 5th overall. Ishaan continued to advance in the competition; showing some fleet-footwork to take priority and record comfortable wins over his opponents.
By advancing to the European U10 sabre final and flying the only British flag Ishaan took to the piste. He was fencing the local favourite and last years third placed finisher. Ishaan continued his great feet and hand technique to take an early lead. His lead was pegged back, but determination and an appreciation of the many rules saw him succeed and be crowned European Champion.
A superb result for a young squad, who only fence after school and built upon the recent IAPS success with one of very few European Youth titles.
Colin Bell