SABRE in the Devon 2022 Junior Fencing Championships was dominated by the county’s newest fencing club, Heart of Devon Swords, taking seven medals home to Crediton.

Sabre Medallists from Heart of Devon Swords were: Under 9 Boys: Gold - Ted Whiteley; Under 11 Girls: Gold - Sophia Liu; Silver - Xiran Sun; Under 13 Boys: Gold - Billy Whiteley; Under 15 Boys: Silver - Jojo Yang. Bronze - Chiyuan Sun and Under 17 Boys: Gold - Oliver Dunton. 

Coach, Jason Ball praised the medallists: “Heart of Devon Swords fencers showed great enthusiasm and team spirit as they crossed swords with players from Sidmouth and East Devon Fencing Club and Barnstaple FC.

“This was the first Junior county tournament since the lockdowns, also the first for our new club. Well done fencers and huge thanks to organisers.” 

Sabre is one of three weapon disciplines in modern fencing - Foil and Épée are perhaps better known, but Sabre is the most dynamic and uniquely the whole blade is conductive, so even a featherlike touch on your partner’s metallic target will light up the electronic score box.

Fencing is an energetic Olympic sport that trains your skills, tactical agility and physical fitness. Fencers wear protective gear and follow respectful etiquette - each bout begins and ends with a polite salute. 

Heart of Devon Swords meet at Lords Meadow Leisure Centre in Crediton and a new fast-track beginner course starts on November 5. Call 07719 225965 or see: www.facebook.com/HeartofDevonSwords for details.