2 minute read
RISHWORTH SCHOOL
On the FENCE
The story of the Rishworth School pupil who is taking the world of fencing by storm
Alex Lister, 16, of Sowerby Bridge became the new Cadet Men’s Sambre fencing national champion whilst competing in the GBR International U17s Circuit last month. Alex lunged his way through Europe in both individual and GBR Team 1 events. He competed in national and international competitions, visiting countries such as Germany, Bulgaria, and Hungary.
Finishing his European circuit in Manchester, Alex took home the gold, after defeating his opponent Yoji Hiyama in the last round. Alex’s strong commitment to the year’s circuit lead him to accumulate the highest number of points across all competitions in his category.
Alex has perfected his skill at TMFC Fencing club in Oldham, but his journey to champion status started way before now at Heathfi eld Prep, the junior school to Rishworth School. At age 11, he joined the school’s beginners fencing club to learn all the basics, something his mother, Andrea, said was an excellent introduction. Alex would spend time in and out of school with both experienced fencing teachers and a professional local sensei to develop his skills and take part in practice matches.
For Alex, what started as a hobby soon became a passion. As his confi dence grew, he began to enter external competitions, starting at age 11 with his fi rst cadet competition. Alex, now Year 11 at Rishworth School, is a role model for aspiring fencers at the school. With over 100 extension and enrichment clubs available to students across Rishworth, Alex always encourages students with any interest in fencing to take up the beginner’s course.
Fencing is a combat sport featuring swordplay. The di erent levels of weaponry, foil, sabre and epee allow people of all ages
ALEX PICTURED ON THE LEFT
and abilities to part-take in the sport. It is both a physical and mental workout where strategy, agility and physical endurance has a huge part to play. With so many complexities to perfect in fencing, Alex’s family, friends, school, and training club have always given him the support he needs to allow him to train enough to compete all over the world.
Alex’s fencing career however, has only just begun. He continues to push for more success stating: “I know I can get even better. It's great to be national champion, but I know how much hard work that took and I’m not satisfi ed, I know there is more to come.” Alex has now qualifi ed to fence for team GB at the European Championships 2023.
