大象传媒

大象传媒 Leicester's Rupal Rajnai was a complete novice when it came to fencing so she sought the help of Chris Beadling of the Leicester Fencing Club.

First off, he explained about the weapon Rupal would be wielding. It was an epee, the kind of weapon familiar from The Three Musketeers.

"It has a large guard, a large fairly stiff blade and the whole target area is the body," says Chris.

The weapon is a development of the duelling rapier and it is used in the Modern Pentathlon.

Points are scored by being the first to hit anywhere, anyhow, anytime, just FIRST!

Listen to the fencing introduction...

Rupal asked what the first thing a fencing beginner is taught. "How to stand and move backwards and forwards, says Chris. "This is a bit boring... but it is important."

You also have to learn the language of fencing and learn to move with grace, coordination and timing.

After her first "work out" with Chris, Rupal was out of breath and felt decidedly unfit. "In the outfit and mask it was really hard work. It needs a great deal of concentration."

Chris, however, was very encouraging saying she was very quick minded. "At least grade one standard."

Listen: Rupal's Epee

Watching Rupal's efforts was 大象传媒 Leicester's Tim Parker. Listen to his comments...

Offering his full considered, informed opinion on Rupal's performance he said, "I was standing open-mouthed.

"You moved with elegance and grace at one point. You were also elephanting around too."

But regaining his gallantry he quickly remarked, " You need a high level of physical fitness... you didn't disgrace yourself at all."

Listen: Rupal's Assessed

Chris offers his considered opinion of Rupal's performance...

Chris said that the Leicester Fencing Club is in fine fettle. "We are starting a beginners' club in September for youngsters of eight and upwards, and also an adult beginners' group."

Who knows, maybe he has found a new member in the shape of Rupal...