Beginning (1990 - 1997)
I started Fencing back in 1991 whilst at the Sir Graham Balfour High School, where my coach was Mr Nick Chapman, who introduced me to the sport and to the Foil. Nick travelled from Worcestershire to Stafford with a car full of kit to run two classes a week - one for 6th Form students and one open to all.
I continued to fence as a club member at the Staffordshire University Fencing Club between 1993 and 1997, but focussed more on my studies.
This is a picture taken in 1992 at my first competition. I am fourth from the left in this picture and Nick (Coach) is far left.
The fact that Bruce Dickinson, vocalist with my favourite band - Iron Maiden, is a fencer, may have had an influence.
