When you
say "fencing," some people think of playing a game that looks like ballet with
toy swords, while others think of the mortal combat of hundreds of years ago, in which the
only rule was to kill or be killed. In order to find out what the true sport of modern
fencing is all about, Bilkent News took a look at the beginner's fencing
classes at the Student Dormitories Sports Hall.
Historically, fencing may have evolved from early Roman wars thousands of years ago, in
which soldiers used swords and spears. The weapons slowly changed from heavy swords and
shields to lighter ones for more agility and maneuverability. In battle, the only
objective was to kill the enemy, but using swords and rapiers in duels later became a
means of settling arguments between gentlemen. For duels, since honor was involved, a set
of rules was developed. The objective was often not to kill or even to injure, but to
demonstrate superior skill and outwit your opponent. These rules of dueling then formed
the basis for modern fencing.
The weapons that are used in modern sport fencing are lightweight and can be moved with
lightning speed. They look dangerous! Although the edges and ends are not sharp, people
wear protective masks and padding to ensure that there are no injuries. Many of the
important aspects of sport fencing are mental. Confidence, focus, intensity and momentum
are essential components.
We asked some of the students who are taking the fencing course at Bilkent about the
sport.
"I can't think of a better sport in terms of combining balance and nimbleness.
I strongly recommend fencing to everyone. Just try it!"
Mehmet
Can Vanlı (EE)
"When I'm doing this sport, I feel like a knight in 16th-century Europe."
E. Çağrı Artuner (IAED)
"Fencing is a sport in which you can use your strategic intelligence, ability to make
quick decisions, physical balance and coordination together."
Ezgican Şengündüz (IAED)
The fencing coach, Halim Şener, teaches the classes and is also an internationally
certified referee in the sport.
Come and join in this interesting athletic activity. One suggestion, though: choose your
fencing partner carefully!
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