The 2016 Olympic Games in Rio have come to a close with the United States bringing home over 120 medals including 4 in fencing! Alex Massialas in men’s foil and Daryl Homer in men’s sabre both earned silver medals. While the men’s foil team and women’s sabre team brought home bronze. There was a lot of exciting fencing! If you missed it live, you can find the fencing bouts online at nbcolympics.com. Click on the down-arrow to the right of the round you want to watch and pick the “Full event replay”.

So now you’ve seen fencing in action, now what? Why not try it yourself! Our club, Apex Fencing Academy, offers instruction in foil and épée. We offer group classes and private lessons for kids, teens and adults.

What about equipment? Do I have to buy a lot of stuff?

No. We have equipment that you can rent. Just come to class wearing a tee-shirt, sweat pants, socks and athletic shoes.

Is it safe?

Fencing is a very safe sport. First, you wear multiple layers of tough, canvas-like fabric. There’s also a padded glove for your weapon hand. And the mask is rated to at least 350 newtons. And no, the blades are not sharp.

Will I get hurt?

It’s very unlikely you will be seriously injured. But like any sport there are risks. Starting off, you’ll experience a few bruises. Fencing is physically demanding, and you’ll have sore muscles. The best advice is to take it easy until you get the hang of it.

Am I too old to start?

Absolutely not! Fencing is a lifelong sport with men and women competing well into their 70s and 80s. Each year at the National Championships there are competitors in the Veterans 70+ age group!

Is my son or daughter too young?

Our lower limit is 7 years old.

Can I just do it for fun?

Sure! There’s no reason to search out tournaments. Fencing can be a great sport to keep your body and mind sharp, enjoy the camaraderie of the club, and keep in shape. But be warned, once you pick up a blade and start fencing it’s hard not to want to test yourself in competition.

Any other costs?

All you need to do to get started is sign up for a class through the Town of Cary, rent the equipment and purchase a $10 USA non-competitive membership. That’s it.

When do classes start?

Our next set of classes start the week of August 29th. Classes are offered in the late afternoon and evening at Middle Creek Community Center adjacent to Middle Creek High School.

Fencing classes are held at Middle Creek Community Center in partnership with the Town of Cary. Registration is handled through the Town of Cary Parks and Recreation website. Search using the keyword “Fencing”.