3-1/2 years ago, when I started fencing (at the age of 40), I had no idea that fencing would become such an important part of my life. I have never enjoyed a sport more and I have gained such incredible friends because of it. In 18 days, I will be competing for the second time in the Fencing National Championships in Anaheim. This will be my 4th National competition in the past 1-1-/2 years since picking Epee as my weapon of choice. In case you've wondered, let me settle it and say that I am seriously hooked.
Adjusting my mask before the "en guarde"
Last year was such an incredible experience. I learned so much during
the days that I fenced and during the days that I was cheering on my
clubmates. Since then, I have switched from pistol grip to french grip
and have completely changed my fencing style. I have gotten more
bruises than I can count and shed more tears over fencing than I care to admit. It has certainly been a
challenge, but I do believe that it is through the fire, so to speak,
that we become stronger.
Women's Vet Epee Team 2011
I have also become stronger due to being part of an incredible team. These gals first gave me the encouragement that I could actually really do this. They are my champions and my rocks. They challenge me, believe in me and are just the most awesome women.
Women's Vet Epee Team 2012
Sadly, this is the last season that my incredible coach and friend, Sebastien Dos Santos, will be with us. He is moving back to France for a few years and so this will be his last National Championships with the club before he leaves. Unfortunately, he will be in Buenos Aires with the U.S. Men's Epee team during 2 of my events. (Yep, he's pretty much a rock star when it comes to fencing coaches.) While it's a huge bummer that he won't be strip side with me, I can't begin to tell you what an incredible privilege it has been to have had him as my coach for the past 1-1/2 years. I am already feeling the loss of him and his uncanny ability to work with my funky brain and strange learning style.
Me and Seb talking strategy
That's not to say that I won't have incredible coaching, however. There is incredible depth when it comes to fencing coaches at the club. I've also been working with French fencing Master Christophe Duclos the past few months and am really pleased with the things that he is bringing out in my game. French fencing master Simon Abram and Cody Mattern, former Olympian and current member of the U.S. Men's World Championship team, will also be there to coach.
I gotta say that I'm pretty damn lucky.
So......in the next 18 days, I will have 3 more lessons, 7 days of training, 2 competitions, 3 days of rest and probably at least one meltdown before I'm on that strip.
Then, I just have to bring it.......
"There is only one thing we say to death: Not today."
George R.R. Martin
