Trinity Fencing Club showcased an outstanding performance at the Irish Fencing Intervarsity Championship, winning five out of six weapons and securing 24 out of 26 matches to claim the prestigious Frank Russell Cup. This dominant display reaffirmed Trinity’s position as a powerhouse in university fencing, with the team demonstrating skill, discipline, and teamwork throughout the competition.
Reflecting on the victory, Trinity Fencing Club Development Officer Colm Flynn highlighted the team’s unwavering focus and discipline as key factors in their success. “The consistency across the team was vital. The individual skill levels of our fencers might well have delivered an Intervarsity victory anyway, but this level of dominance is only possible with the right mental approach,” Flynn stated. “Intervarsities can be a long weekend of fencing, and nobody will win every point, but our fencers excelled by fencing point-by-point and staying focused, regardless of how a match was going. That mindset secured such a comprehensive win.”
Trinity entered the championship as favourites, but Flynn emphasised that every weapon had tough matches to navigate. The team’s rigorous preparation played a key role in their commanding performance. “Our technical-tactical focus is on fundamentals, ensuring our fencers can adapt to different opponents and control tempo and distance,” Flynn explained. “We also work with Donncdha Carroll on strength and conditioning, giving our fencers the explosive speed and endurance needed to perform at the highest level.”
Beyond training, Flynn credited the club’s strong culture, spearheaded by captain Katie Lynch and vice-captain Cathal Maguire, as a vital component of their success. “Our team leaders and weapon captains did a fantastic job in fostering a supportive environment, ensuring every fencer knew their role and felt part of the team.”
The championship weekend was filled with remarkable individual and team performances. Victories over second-place UCD were particularly defining moments. “Sora Bowen’s comeback from 0-2 down with six seconds left in Men’s Épée, Eoghan O hAnluain Fay’s 2-4 comeback win in Men’s Foil, and John Delhomme’s decisive win in Men’s Sabre were standout moments,” Flynn recalled. “Our women’s teams also delivered commanding victories over UCD, with Women’s Foil winning 5-0, Women’s Épée 5-1, and Women’s Sabre 5-2.”
Winning the Frank Russell Cup for a second consecutive year marks a significant milestone for Trinity Fencing Club. However, the team’s focus now shifts to upcoming competitions. “We have key events ahead, including the annual Colours match against UCD in April, where we aim to build on our Intervarsity success,” Flynn noted. “We’re also looking forward to major individual events such as the East of Ireland Open and the Irish National Championships, as well as hosting the Dublin Épée event at Trinity this weekend (15th and 16th March).”
For those inspired by the team’s success, Trinity Fencing Club welcomes new members of all levels, from beginners to experienced fencers. “Our Instagram page is the best place to find information on training sessions and how to get involved,” Flynn added. Follow them at: @trinityfencing.
With a dedicated team, a strong competitive spirit, and a commitment to excellence, Trinity Fencing Club continues to set the standard in university fencing. Congratulations to all fencers on an incredible achievement!