A small Nelson fencing club has returned from Christchurch with national medals, strong placings, and valuable experience after competing against the country’s best young fencers.
Four members of Fencing in Nelson/Tasman attended the National Under 15 and Cadet Championships at the weekend, joined by another young club member who officiated as a referee.
The tournament attracted more than 100 competitors from across New Zealand, with high-intensity bouts and tough learning curves for many of the younger athletes.
Despite the depth of competition, each Nelson fencer delivered standout performances in their respective events.
In the individual competitions, Fraser Bryant placed third in the Under 15 men’s foil. Aldo Horring finished 20th in cadet men’s foil and 15th in cadet men’s epee. Elowyn Brooke secured 17th in Under 15 women’s epee and 11th in Under 15 women’s foil. Rebecca Hume placed 12th in Under 15 women’s foil.
Two Nelson fencers were also selected for Mid South Fencing teams, highlighting the club’s growing profile beyond the region.
Elowyn joined the Mid South team that placed third in the Under 15 women’s epee, while Rebecca was part of the squad that finished second in the Under 15 women’s foil.
Founded in 2022, Fencing in Nelson/Tasman has just 33 members but continues to develop competitive athletes at a national level.
Club representatives say the results reflect a strong and steadily improving skill base, and mark another step forward for the young organisation.
