Navy Fencers Cross Swords at Sharply Contested 2026 Championships
The championships brought together both experienced competitors and newcomers from across the UK and Cyprus to compete in men’s and women’s sabre, foil and épée events.
Proceedings began with a dedicated training day featuring grassroots coaching for beginners alongside advanced sessions for established fencers. Coaching support was led by Leading Hand Rhys Melia, a former British and Inter-Services Champion, helping participants refine their technical and tactical skills ahead of competition.
POWtr Shaz Jones, who later claimed the Best Novice trophy, said, “While this is only my second fencing event, I’ve felt really welcome. It’s a challenging and competitive sport but everyone was ready to help with tips and advice. I’m hooked now and looking for a club near home so I can continue.”
Competitive action began on Saturday with men’s and women’s events running in parallel. The Royal Navy Amateur Fencing Association’s continued partnership with the University of Portsmouth Fencing Club saw eight university fencers join the championships, adding fresh competition and enthusiasm throughout the weekend.
Several closely fought elimination rounds highlighted the high standard of fencing on display, including James Edwards versus Lieutenant Commander Will Hill in the men’s sabre, and Leading Air Engineering Technician Grace Brown against Musician Anna Davison in the women’s sabre.
In women’s foil, a Fleet Air Arm rivalry saw Grace Brown face Leading Air Engineering Technician Cat Law in a fiercely contested bout, with Brown emerging victorious.
Competition concluded on Sunday with the épée events. In the men’s final, Lieutenant Adam Whitelaw established an early lead before extending his advantage in the second period to defeat Captain Brian Trim.
While this is only my second fencing event, I’ve felt really welcome. It’s a challenging and competitive sport but everyone was ready to help with tips and advice.
Having won all three women’s disciplines, Grace Brown was crowned Women’s Champion at Arms, while Adam Whitelaw’s medal-winning performances across all three weapons secured him the Men’s Champion at Arms title. Both will now represent the Royal Navy at the Inter-Services Championships in June, competing for the UK Armed Forces Master Swordsman and Swordswoman titles.
Alongside the championships, competitors and organisers discussed future training opportunities and plans for the coming season. These include termly Development Days to support new fencers entering the sport, the annual fencing trip to Guernsey in March, and an overseas visit to the Netherlands for an international military competition.
Lieutenant Commander Kyle O’Regan said, “Fencing is the oldest sports association in the Navy – going strong after nearly 300 years. The Association gets better every year with new people taking up fencing, new opportunities, and more ways to get involved.
“The sport offers a fantastic mix of fitness, skill and tactical thinking. There really is something for everyone, and we’re looking forward to competing together at Inter-Services in a few weeks.”
Association Secretary Leading Hand Rhys Melia added, “I’m hugely enthusiastic about the future of fencing in the Navy. We’ve seen lots of new faces at this year’s championships and there are some fantastic events coming up. I’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch and have a go.”
The Royal Navy Amateur Fencing Association organises grassroots sessions, development training and competitions for personnel across the Service. A weekly fencing club operates from HMS TEMERAIRE every Tuesday evening from 1830, with beginners welcome and equipment and coaching available.