After the Hiatus

Since the fencers were unanimously desirous of fighting, the drills were once again shortened and the fighting commenced.

• First Bout: Mr. Instructor vs. Ms. Secretary. (7-4). Saber.

• Second Bout: Mr. President vs. Mr. E. Hill. (5-3). Foil.

• Third Bout: Mr. Instructor vs. Mr. P. Kamakawiwoole. (5-3). Foil.

• Fourth Bout: Mr. G. Evans vs. Mr. B. Flint. In which is seen most unusual and creative footwork. (5-4). Foil.

• Fifth Bout: Mr. Instructor vs. Ms. Treasurer. In which was seen how aggressive a fencer can be made after the mention of a troublesome class. In which was also demonstrated that fencing swords can break. (7-5). Saber.

• Sixth Bout: Mr. N. Ryan vs. Mr. President. In which the president was soundly beaten and both parties received minor injuries. (7-2). Saber.

• Seventh and Final Bout: Ms. Treasurer vs. Ms. Secretary. (7-4). Saber.

"Weapons: Weapons should be regularly checked to ensure they are in a safe usable condition.
Blades: Blades should be observed and tested to see whether any portion is "soft", that is to say whether any portion of the blade bends more than the rest. "Softness" indicates a dangerous weakness which may lead to a break A 'soft' portion is indicated when a blade bends into an irregular or uneven curve. The portion which bends more than the rest is 'soft'. A new blade should be tested by placing the point on the floor and depressing the top about six inches and checking that it bends evenly. Blades can be checked similarly during the non-fencing breaks in a bout. " ~http://www.shakespearesswords.co.uk/safety_guidelines.htm