Fencing Takes Over

Posing in front of the GREAT LEMON of Acireale 08 Fencing Tournament.

Fencing Fever has reached an all-time high in Sicily as the Acireale 08 Fencing Tournament - the world championship for Juniors & Cadets (Under 20 and Under 17 Respectively) - has come to town.  The 'GREAT LEMON' has graced billboards, signs, and all forms of advertising - inspiring an entire new generation of Italian fencers to grab their sabers and don the chainlink. 

George and I, both avid fencing-enthusiasts, decided to get up early and take in some of the action late last week.  We were lucky to catch some exciting action, featuring men's sabers and women's eppes.  I know that most of you are well familiar with the sport, but it was cool to learn that in Sabers, one can strike and slash anywhere on the body - while Eppes requires you to only poke your opponent.

I was also lucky to strike up a conversation with the Canadian National Team -- who all are 1) Avid Booster Juice fans, 2) Afraid of the Hungarians, and 3) Split on whether the 2nd or 3rd Muskateer had the best technique.  I quizzed them further on their other role models, and they all agreed that the sword play in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves inspired their generation.

See below for some pics - and look for our fencing video blog soon!

A panoramic view of the Fencing Pavilion... aka THE LEMON GROVE.

While being a BIG TARGET is a great attribute for a tight end, it unfortunately does not carry the same benefits for fencers.

The action was fast and furious.  While the Canadian Team told me the Hungarians were the favorites, my money is on this fighter from Morocco... he was FIERCE!  (And yelled loudly after EVERY point!)

Although fencing is not the center of the anti-doping movement, it is great to know that all athletes must take the anti-doping quiz.  Unfortunately, the only question is name and country.  Hope we catch those cheaters!

These swords - although commemorative - also make great movie props.

Who wants to fight this guy?  This might just be me, but I think that painting your helmet like a Clown on Drugs should be illegal.  (In fact, perhaps all clowns should be illegal... they attract too many children!)

Unfortunately, no one attended my press conference where I declared myself eligible for the 2009 Fencing Draft.  

~ J. Twice