Am I too old to start competitive fencing?

Question

Im thinking of taking a beginer's course starting next year as long as it doesn`t interfere with my running but at 15 I'm not sure what if it will benefit me in any way other than having a new hobby.Do you think it's woth the expense?Will I still have a shot at competitions?

Answer 1

I would say definitely try it! Though at most national and international level competitions, a majority of the fencers have been fencing from a slightly younger age (about 7-10 usually), there are still a solid amount of fencers who picked it up as teenagers, adults, or even seniors who achieve great success at the national/international level!

For a nice story, google Jujie Luan. She was a competitive track and field athlete for China until she picked fencing up at 16 or 17. In a year, she was on the Junior national team, and she went on to earn China's first Olympic gold medal when they re-joined the Olympics. She competed in Beijing (her fourth Olympics, at age 50!!) and made the second round. Anything is possible!

Even if you don't aspire to win the Olympics, or even compete nationally, there are regional and local tournaments that are open to anyone that you could do very well in after a very short time fencing. Most importantly, fencing is an awesome sport, and it's one that you can do your whole life, so whether you want to use it as cross training for running, or pick up a new sport, I'd definitely recommend trying it! You can email me if you want any club recommendations, or to learn more about fencing.

Answer 2

Fencing is a sport you can do at almost any age. There are different levels of competitions you can enter depending on your abilities. If its something you think you'll enjoy and stick with, then yes its worth the expense.

Answer 3

No way!  Anyone can do fencing and anyone can be great at it.  There will be people older and younger than you in your class.  I was 16 when I started fencing and I still and in love with it.