Fencing Gala Welcomes Competitors in a Thrilling Day of Sport
The RGS Fencing Gala, a much-anticipated event in the RGS calendar, took place on Sunday, 1 December, drawing 100 competitors and requiring both Tom Savage Hall and Cobham Hall to accommodate the action-packed day. The competition officially commenced shortly after noon with warm-up drills and Fencing exercises.
The Gala featured nine competitions across two disciplines: Foil and Épée. Participants ranged from novice fencers, some of whom had only started this term, to seasoned Under-19 Épéeists, many of whom have attended the Gala since Year Seven. This inclusive event provides a unique platform for athletes of all levels to compete, connect, and develop.
The results underscored the depth of talent in the region. In the Foil category, victories went to a combined Stourbridge/ Kenilworth team (Under 10), KK Fencing Club from Leominster (Under 12), Kenilworth (Under 14), and a Kenilworth/ Wyre Forest team (Under 16). Meanwhile, the Épée champions included Winterfold (Under 10), Malvern (Under 12), Bromsgrove/ King Edward’s Birmingham (Under 14), King Edward’s Birmingham (Under 16), and Bromsgrove (Under 19).
Beyond the competitive excitement, the Gala thrives on its welcoming and collaborative atmosphere. Along with a dedicated team of local Fencing coaches, RGS coach Nick Chapman ensured the event ran smoothly, with coaches assisting in logistics, refereeing, and equipment management. The event also saw former RGS students, now at university and beyond, returning to contribute to refereeing and administration. At the same time, three current RGS pupils volunteered their time to referee throughout the day.
This remarkable sense of community is what truly defines the RGS Fencing Gala. For many participants, this event serves as their introduction to competitive Fencing and their first encounter with peers from different clubs. The fact that so many fencers return year after year—and later come back to help—is a testament to the event’s lasting impact and the affection it inspires.
Mr Philip Eihlers, Fencing Coach and Senior Teacher
