Musketeers Cup - Autumn 2005

Maesto's Report

The last Musketeers Cup for 2005 was the largest this year. That is a good sign. The quality of the finals was much improved. I hope that the many new fencers in Level 1 and their parents have picked up the inspiration to follow in the footsteps of many determined children who have made it through. It was good to see fencers who have been putting a lot of hard work since their last competition doing well. On the other hand many of the new arrivals in Level 2 like Sophia, Virginia and Nick were shocked with the big change in standard in Level 2. They had lately been enjoying some good results in Level 1. But like every good quality fencer they have to train like level 2 fencers train and prove themselves in the next competition later in February next year.

Also, for many fencers this event completed their requirements to graduate to the following level. Emma Kelly and Amos Wittinburg have both now graduated to the following level. The best improving fencer at this event was probably Dylan Bogoevski. He had never made 1st place. In the U10 championships in July he was 11th. Considering he is a new arrival to Level 2, it was a tremendous result for him to come in first place.

'One of the most dangerous mistakes I have seen over the years at competitions is the arrogance in training after winning.'

I have seen many talented children work hard and come first only to slack behind and relax in training then do badly thereafter. Even worse, it is those fencer children that would usually give up soon after.

This is where invaluable parental duties steps in. You are the one who know your child best and this is the time they need you to teach them the power of humble self, the virtue of hard training and the importance of setting the next aim.

These words may sound exaggerated but they are so very real.

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