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In the 17th century it was fashionable for aristocratic males to use the sport of fencing to duel.
This was shortly before duelling was officially banned by the Catholic monarchs.
Fencing is the sport of fighting with swords – the most common version today is Olympic or competitive fencing – and it is one of five sports which has featured at every one of the modern Olympic Games.
Many people do not know that Wollongong has its own fencing club.
Assistant club coach Laura Goodin said Bulli Swords was founded by Olympic pentathlete Robert Berrie in 1991.
‘‘We are a small friendly club where people can learn solid basics and have a good time fencing,’’ she said.
‘‘It is not a mainstream sport but we’d like it to be because fencing has so much to offer everybody. It is obviously great for fitness and physical strength but it also helps with focus, determination and courtesy.’’
On Saturday, March 29, Bulli Swords will hold a fencing demonstration at Crown Street Mall under the David Jones bridge from 1.30pm-3pm. The club will demonstrate the techniques of all three weapons – foil, epee and sabre – and how these techniques work in a bout.
People can ask questions and get information about the club’s training nights and beginners’ classes.
‘‘Our fencers all love the sport, and are excited about showing it to others,’’ Ms Goodin said.
Information: Search for Bulli Swords on Facebook