Stamford fencers’ triumph as silver medallists at British Schools Team Championships

Stamford Junior School, who fielded two U11A Epee teams - a girls and a boys team - saw the boys return as silver medallists from the British Schools Team Fencing Championship held in Rickmansworth yesterday.  The boys team, competing in their inaugural championship, remained undefeated in all rounds despite a high standard of fencing and fierce competition in the semi-finals against an experienced Millfield Prep team. The team comprising Harry Ainsworth, Rory Dresner, Otis Herdale and Alex Simmonds (C) displayed skill, outstanding team spirit and tenacity over a five-hour period culminating in a tense final against Wetherby Prep School. The U11A girls team, Lila Rock, Rose Starsmore-Young, Sophia Harper, Tessa Herdale, are also to be congratulated on their performance finishing in 5th place overall showing tremendous teamwork.The British Schools Team Championships is a long-standing fixture in the annual fencing calendar. On average, the Championship hosts 160 teams from schools around the UK, showcasing some top-level fencing and is regarded as the pinnacle of team fencing for youngsters and future stars.Chris Howser, Stamford Endowed Schools' Head fencing coach commented: 'What an amazing performance from the boys! Less than six months ago the junior school did not even have a fencing club and now they are British School Team Silver Medallists. A controlled and mature performance from such an inexperienced team who showed excellent sportsmanship throughout.’He continued about the girls' performance saying: ‘After a tough first round, the girls spirit and determination came to the fore with a great win in the 5th/6th fight off to finish on a real high. Well done to the whole Stamford Junior School team.'