Fencing, one of the most favourite Olympic sports
Fencing is one of the four prime sports of the modern Olympic Games. It belongs from such a combat of sports which uses bladed weapons. Its three major types of competition are the Epee, Foil, and Sabre which are defined by the weapon used in it. The goal
of fencing is same as the goal of warfare, which is to be the best from other fencer, but without the trappings of violence.
History of Fencing
Fencing game has been found in the history with different names. If we go back to 1200 BC, a carving game was found with protective weapons. The Greek and Roman civilizations have been practicing swordsmanship.
The 15th century was the beginning of this interesting game. Spain introduced the first Fencer in the sports and also drafted the first two manuals for the sport in 1471 and 1474, respectively.
Fencing was developed into a game in 17th century when sword was replaced by gun-powder and fire-arms as basic weapons. For the first time France introduced Foil as a light weapon for the purpose of training. Due to this, new rules of defending
and attacking were introduced in the game. La Boessiere introduced mask, another safety precaution to the sport of fencing.
In 1874, the first fencing school opened in America. In 1896, The Olympics recognised the sport of fencing at the first modern Olympic Games and in 1924, women’s fencing was introduced.
In early time of twentieth century International Federation of Fencing was made in France, named Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE).
Nowadays Fencing is presented in more speedy ways due to introduction of electronic scoring. This gives fencing game an even more strategic element.
Weapons used in Fencing
Three types of weapon are used in the Olympic Game Fencing
1. Foil
2. Epee
3. Sabre
1. Foil
It is a light and flexible weapon which was developed in mid 17th century. It was used as a training weapon for the small sword. The target area for scoring is restricted to torso. Weapon should be hit in such a manner as it would cause a punctured
wound. Hits can be scored by hitting only the targeted area. A touch on off-target area stops the bouts, but does not score a point.
2. Epee
When it was felt that conventions of foil are too restrictive, Epee was invented in second half of the 19th century by a group of French students. It is a sporting weapon which we know today. Epee is exact copy of small sword, but without a needle
sharp point.
If fencer wants to score a valid hit, he must hit his weapon on opponent’s targeted area. However the targeted area consists of entire body.
3. Sabre
Sabre was introduced in the start of the 20th century. It is a cutting weapon and points can be scored with the edge and surface of the blade. The target area for pointing the scores is above the waist, except hands and back of the head.
Equipment used in fencing game
Following equipment is used in while playing the fencing
A well-fitted mask with a strap across the back and attached bib
A properly fitted jacket with fasteners that completely sealed
Fencing Gloves
Fencing knickers also called breeches
Breast Protectors (for women)
Plastrons
Beginners used blade that bend easily
Rules of Fencing
Fencing competition takes place between two competitors trying to hits on one another remaining a playing zone called Piste.
There is also a centre line and two on-guard lines. The on-guard lines are set two metres either side of the centre line.
Both fencers should salute each other before the competition starts.
Each bout consists of three minute period, bout ends before the time limit if one fencer scores 15 points.
Bout is begun by the fencers standing on the guard line and fencers return to the guard line if one of them hit the score.
The fencer should hit the valid targeted area if he wants to score the point.
Weapons and the target areas of each fencer’s body are wired so a hit is automatically registered and a light flashes to indicate a point has been scored.
In case of hit from both fencers at the same time point is awarded to attacking fencer in foil and sabre, but in epee the point is awarded to both fencers.
The bout restarts from the on-guard line after each successful hit.
If any athlete is injured he or she is given 10 minutes to recover, if not then the fencer must withdraw from the game.
If a fencer puts his both feet behind the area of piste, the opponent is awarded a point.
Three fencers on each side compete in team fencing, each of the three players fence against all of three fencers from the opposite side. Each fencer has to point five touches to win.
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