Origins of the Club
The club was founded as a "spin-off" of the S.W. Modern
Pentathlon Association.
Pentathlon is a
multi-discipline sport consisting of riding, runnning, swimming, shooting and fencing.
The club was originally called the "Cavalier's" but in 2001
when Gerry Simpson and Steve Tatner took over the running of the club it was renamed "Wessex Blades".
In 2009, Gerry retired from the commitee and left the main running
of the Club to Gary Taylor.
The
club retains its Pentathlon heritage, fencing with epee's (not foils or sabres) and the club is affiliated to the British
Fencing Association.
Who Fences Where
We fence at Warminster Leisure Centre (details on info page) and we have a lively group
of people from the age of thirteen year old, and both sexes, although we have fewer "teens" and (sadly) "lady"
members.
Equipment
We have seven fully electric pistes, plus ten sets of safety kit, equipment and blades for beginners.
The club can supply kit to buy or is happy to advise on where to shop for it.
Coaching
We are fortunate to have the services of coaches Gary Taylor who has a BFA/England level
3 qualification in all three weapons and Mark Wilson who holds a BAF level 1 in epee, and between them can teach
both absolute beginners through to experienced fencers
Safety
The club pursues a vigorous attitude to its members safety, and although "bumps &
bruises" are unavoidable, fencing is a very low risk sport.
Insurance
All members are encouraged to become members of "British Fencing"
(see " Links" page) to take advantage of their insurance scheme.
