Fencing is not a sport that many people partake in, but sophomore Garret Hamilton has a passion for the sport, while being a member of the marching band, the cross country team and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes club at RHS.

The sport originated in ancient Egypt and since then, has been practiced in various forms in many different cultures. There are three different weapons that can be used in fencing: the foil, the saber and the epee. These weapons are used to move and attack the opponent in different ways. Each type of attack has a point value that the competitor will ear n to raise or lower their score in a match.

Hamilton has been fencing for over six years now and has recently started fencing independently. For five and a half years he took lessons through the county with a previous Olympic gold medalist, Gitty Mohebban. As well as taking lessons, Hamilton fences competitively in several competitions and tournaments throughout Montgomery County.

While fencing, one must do whatever he or she can, granted that it is acceptable within the rules. Actions such as dodging, avoiding, blocking and counterattacking one’s opponent in order to get the final points will mean the fencer wins. The main goal in fencing is to hit others and not to be hit with the weapon, also known as a foil.

Hamilton participated in a small tournament hosted at his previous teacher’s club and was awarded second place, in which he received a trophy and a medal. “Although I have participated in some small tournaments, it has helped me practice for the tournaments that I partake in now,” said Hamilton.

Fencing requires great concentration and coordination from both competitors in the match. “Recently, I have gotten pretty close to winning first place awards, but always seem to miss it, even if by just a few points.” Hamilton has his family’s support during each match. “Hopefully I will do well in the upcoming Junior Olympic qualifiers,” said Hamilton.