Sophie Williams Blog

Wales & Newquay

Last week I went to the Welsh Open in Cardiff. It is an annual senior competition and important on the senior circuit. The day started off quite well, despite the fact I had been ill, and I won all of my poule round fights. I was then seeded 4th and had a fairly easy draw through the first round, winning 15-9. I then had my clubmate Maggie McWilliams in the last 16, who I have fenced in competitions many times before.  Although I may have had the advantage on paper it was Maggie who had the edge on the day, just winning 15-14. Although I was disappointed with my result, I can take positives from my performance, even though I was unwell. I then spent the next day recovering and am now feeling much better!

This weekend I attended the Advalus Pro Sabre competition in Newquay. It is a very important event and very highly viewed in the world of fencing. Last year I made the quarter-finals and so was hoping for another good result this year. Again, I got off to a good start winning all my fights in my poule, including the one against last year’s winner, Kira Roberts. This meant I was placed 5th after the first round and had a bye through to the last 32. I then drew Kira Roberts again. It was a good fight, but I fenced well to win 15-12. I then drew my clubmate Angela Bilardi in the last 16.  It was a good match, but I lost 15-13. So although I haven’t been at the top of my game for the last couple of weeks, I am hoping I can give a good performance at this weekend’s Junior International in Germany.