On our second episode of ”Julie Tries,” Julie visited Savage Fencing Club! Below are some questions she asked owners Bruce and Lauren about their business!
How did you get into fencing?
Bruce: Unlike many people, I never had the slightest interest in fencing, growing up, even though three of my friends were on the fencing team. But then one day, when I was in the ninth grade, my older brother dragged me down into the basement of our high school, where I took part in my first fencing practice. I was hooked from the start.
Lauren: I started fencing in college and loved it the moment I tried it. It is joy in motion! I recently expanded into all 3 fencing weapons, foil, epee, and saber, and all have unique techniques and tactics to offer. I look forward to a lifetime of learning from this wonderful sport!
What is one thing everyone should know about the sport?
You can fence at any level that you like, from that of a recreational fencer who fences once a week, up to a world championship. Needless to say, the latter requires a lot more commitment than the former!
Why did you choose Savage Mill?
We live on Baltimore Street, two blocks away from the Mill, and had been talking about starting a club there for years. When we discovered our current space might be available, we leapt at the opportunity.
I want to get involved – where do I start?
Drop by most weekday evenings (soon to be every week night, as of the first week of February) or Saturday morning (also starting in February). We always tell people that before they do anything else, they might want to come to the club and see if they like the sport, the people, and the venue. Then (or before!) talk to us or send us an email, and if you are interested, sign up for one of our adult (13+) or youth (9+, but we are somewhat flexible, re younger students) classes.
Can anyone do fencing?
Just about. We have taught students of all ages and sizes. I have had beginning students who were as young as six, and others who did not start until their late sixties. Although we do not offer it, there are fencing programs for the blind, and there is also a very active wheelchair fencing group that fences both nationally and internationally. In general, if you are ambulatory to some degree, you can fence. And the most potent weapon you will have, once you are on a fencing piste with a foil, epee, or saber in your hand, is your mind.