The Swift Current Fencing Club is celebrating their 20th season of teaching the sport of fencing to youth and adults in the southwest. To mark the anniversary, the club will be hosting a provincial tournament on January 31 – February 1 at the Swift Current Comprehensive High School cafeteria.
Over 65 athletes from across the province are expected to participate in three different weapon categories (Foil, Épée, Sabre) and 7 different age categories ranging from Under 10 to Masters levels. Action begins at 9:30 am on Saturday, January 31st with bouts running until approximately 5 p.m. Sunday’s competitions will run from 8:30 a.m. until approximately 4 p.m. See skfencing.ca for a complete schedule. Admission is free for spectators.
The Swift Current club is one of only six fencing clubs in the province. “We are so thankful that local resident, Lisa Hagen, developed an interest in fencing and started this club 20 years ago. Lisa continues to coach and share her passion for the sport with new members each year,” remarks Denise Barbier, club president.
To further celebrate their 20th anniversary, the club is hosting a supper at the Elmwood Golf Course on the evening of January 31st. “At first we thought we would just have an event with local club members and alumni but then decided on a supper during the tournament weekend so our fencing friends from across the province could celebrate with us,” describes Barbier.
When John Shurniak, Saskatchewan Fencing Association (SFA) Executive Director, heard about the anniversary plans he asked if they could combine their 2024/25 season provincial awards banquet with the anniversary supper. Shurniak says, “the SFA is looking forward to recognizing the achievements of last season’s athletes as well as marking the achievements of the Swift Current club over the past 20 years.”
If you are curious about the sport of fencing, the Swift Current club offers a variety of classes from September to April each year including a seven-week Intro to Fencing class. The next Intro to Fencing class begins March 3. Visit www.swiftcurrentfencingclub.ca for details.
