EN GARDE Prêts Allez! As top athletes prepare to do sporting battle at the Paris 2024 Olympics, readers’ attention may be drawn to the shooting or equestrian events. However, I encourage you to consider the ancient and balletic art of fencing. The setting is the spectacular Grand Palais, with its magnificent glass roof, in the heart of Paris: fencing’s classical home.
On first thought, fencing conjures images of knights clashing swords, aristocratic duels, even gladiators in the colosseum, and (if you’re of a certain vintage) undoubtedly Errol Flynn. For the middle-aged it’s the Bond film with Madonna – Die Another Day – and for youngsters it’s Game of Thrones. It was practised by the ancient Babylonians, Persians, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Given its rich history, it’s extraordinary to think fencing is now an activity you can do ‘down your local leisure centre’. Because, aside from kendo (the Japanese version of the sport) this is the only sport where you can attack your opponent with a weapon.
