A TREAT FOR SHOW PATRONS.

Manawatu Standard, Volume LIV, Issue 281, 26 October 1934, Page 7

A TREAT FOR SHOW PATRONS.

There are very few residents in this country who have had the good fortune of witnessing one of tho greatest of scientific sports—fencing. Wo have heard reports now and again during tho past few vears of a revival of the sport in England and on the Continent and quite recently it has made its debut in New Zealand. The London SCIIO9I of Arms, Wellington, under the direction of Miss Zena Clarke (A.8.A.P.T.), of London, has produced some very proficient pupils and already several fencing clubs, have been formed in Wellington. An item at the Manawatu Spring Show which will be looked forward to with the greatest interest is the display of fencing, foil and sabre play which will be demonstrated by Miss Clarke and some of her Wellington pupils. An excellent standard of fighting may be expected as some of Now Zealand’s best fencers will take part. The finer art of foil duelling will be demonstrated by Mr .John Standish, a representative in fencing at Woolwich, .Mr John McDuff, Lieutenants N. Daysh ana E. Harding. The cut and thrust style will be exhibited in sabre play by Mr Stephen Gerard, an Oxford Blue, and Mr Harold Davy. Further foil exposition will bo given by some of the lady members of tho Wellington Swords Club, demonstrating tliat the sport has an appeal for both men and women. The value of the sport in producing perfection of carriage and a high standard of physical fitness will bo appreciated by all those who witness the programme provided by Miss Clarke’s pupils at tho Show stadium next Thursday evening. Each bout will bo conducted under the strict_ rules of the sport. The etiquette of fencing will bo fully maintained and tho origin of the famous now-old sport will bo unfolded to the public at the finish in a humorous farce, “Fencing 200 Years Ago.” The remarkable attacks and parries of these finished fencers will provide an fine entertainment and some interesting touches will be observed.