Following the recent Wheelchair Fencing World Cup in Cardiff, clubs across the UK have now received their wheelchair fencing frames as part of our loan scheme.
In response to the Level Access Survey 2023 – in which clubs identified barriers to wheelchair fencing participation – the loan scheme was introduced to build more national grassroots wheelchair fencing opportunities.
The 22 wheelchair fencing frames used at the Wheelchair Fencing World Cup in Cardiff have been shared out to communities across the UK. This number includes 9 for long-term loan to clubs; 8 for short-term use at clubs with the view to also have them available for BF’s ADP camps and competitions throughout the year; and 5 purchased by partners at universities and the Home Nations.
One of the frames was loaned to Barti Ddu Cleddyfa Fencing (Black Bart’s Fencing Club) in Lampeter – featured in our previous article – and has immediately been put to use by their fencer Derek.
Their coach, Gethin ap Phylip said,
“I wanted to say a massive thank you for the loan of the frame. Yesterday’s fencing session was only an hour long, so we used plastic kit for a quick ‘dry test’. Derek, the gentleman on the right who I’ve been coaching since the summer, thoroughly enjoyed it… It certainly beats my previous, improvised system.”
Many thanks to everyone that signed up to the scheme. We look forward to seeing how clubs across the UK support the growth of wheelchair fencing in their communities.
TWO FRAMES ARE STILL AVAILABLE
There are currently two frames still needing a home. If you’re interested in using it to increase opportunities for wheelchair fencers in your club, please get in touch with BF Inclusion Officer (Disability) via [email protected].
Don’t miss the latest news and reports. Subscribe to our weekly summary email, The Fencing Digest, featuring the previous week’s latest news and announcements. Sign up here.
Sign up to receive regular highlights from the exciting world of fencing - celebrating the best of our unique and inspiring community
