OLYMPIC FENCING AT CBA
ABOUT EPEE
Overview
Fencing is a combat sport in which two competitors, each holding a weapon in one hand, face each other to hit their opponent on a valid target area of the body. Fencing is only one of five sports that has been contested in every modern Olympic Games since 1896.
The Epee Rules
In épée, our weapon, fencers only score when they hit their opponent with the point. The target is the entire body: from the mask down to the foot. If both fencers hit at the same time, a “double touch” is scored; if one fencer hits more than 1/15 of a second first, only a single touch is scored.
Electric Scoring
Fencing is scored by electronic signaling devices. The weapons are connected to the scoring device which sets off a buzzer and a light when a hit is scored.
The Epee
The epee has an electric connection running inside the guard and up the blade to the spring-loaded electric tip. The fencer must move the tip one millimeter with a force of 750 grams to score a touch.
An epee must meet regulation standards in order to be used for competition.
The epee must be less than 110 centimeters in length and weigh less than 770 grams (about a pound). The guard must be less than 13.7 centimeters in diameter, and the bend in the blade must be less than 1 centimeter. A fencer can choose to attach a pistol grip or French grip at the tang.
CBA Competitive Epee: Developmental Progression
Progression from each stage is based on the fencer’s desire to move to the next level, and the coaches’ evaluation of the fencer’s readiness to do so.
This is a highly individual determination, and there is no one-size fits all timetable.
Intake Lesson(s)
By Appointment
Intermediate Epee Training (13 & older)
Youth Epee Class
(12 & younger)
Gold-Level Competitive Epee Training
(Men & Women)
Platinum Level Competitive Epee Training
(Men & Women)
YOUTH EPEE CLASSES
Our youth classes instruct our youngest fencers in the basics of technique and tactics.
​
They follow the same general pattern as our competitive sessions:
Individual Warmups → Strength & Conditioning → Footwork → Partner Exercises → Bouting: Varying Themes and Tasks + Lessons
Emphasis is on fun and skill acquisition.
Fencers are provided with a Study Guide that covers vocabulary, equipment, rules, safety, basic bladework and footwork, distance, attacks and defenses, refereeing, tournament skills, and community skills.
Fencers also learn to track their own progress and prepare for promotion to the Competitive Epee group when the time is ripe.
Youth Class fencers are encouraged to begin to attend age-appropriate tournaments when they are ready. The coaches will provide necessary information to parents.
Classes are:
Tuesday 6:30-8:00 PM
Thursday 6:30-8:00 PM
Saturday 10:30-11:30 AM
For more information, please contact CBA.
