En garde!

I spent ninety minutes today watching my oldest grandchild’s fencing class - the first time I’ve seen her live as opposed to watching a video where I have to pick her out because of her red socks.(Worrying thought: she hand-washed the socks at teatime - will they be dry in time for tomorrow’s competition?)

It was fascinating to watch the build-up from simple warmup exercises that reminded me of the boys’ football training to the complex parrying and pouncing that happen in a flash in each bout. And the gear: it’s like watching a knight put on his armour. I was impressed. I think I’d have enjoyed it, had the chance ever come my way ...