Kennedy Recreation Center
Where Getting Foiled Is Part of the Fun
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Swish.
The fencer's epee cuts through the air in a salute to the more seasoned opponent about 10 feet away. The metal mesh of the masks makes it difficult to see the competitors' faces, but one can make out glares and an unspoken promise -- the first lunge will make contact with more than air.
Then with permission from the director (referee), the two fencers are lunging at each other, epees clanging with each missed attempt until finally the more experienced fencer finds an exposed area and strikes.
This scene plays out every Saturday morning in the gym at Kennedy Recreation Center in Northwest Washington. There, fencers of all levels attend a free, drop-in lesson provided by the National Fencing Foundation of Washington, D.C.
For someone with no experience (having seen "The Three Musketeers" does not count!), the classes are perfect. All the equipment -- jackets, blades, masks and gloves -- is provided by the foundation, and coaches and advanced fencers teach. It is a great way to get a taste of the Olympic sport without having to make an expensive commitment.
The classes regularly attract 20 to 25 students a week; although most of the beginners are kids, adults are just as welcome. Newcomers are encouraged to wear athletic pants and tennis shoes.
The lesson begins with an equipment tutorial and fitting. There are three types of blades used in fencing: epee, foil and sabre. Each has its own history and rules about how it can be used to score a touch. Beginners start with the foil and are told to aim at the torso; no hits to the legs, arms or head.
The next lesson involves basic footwork and strategies. For example, you should lead with your right foot (if you are right-handed), bend your knees and try not to be too obvious about where you are aiming.
It is "a physical game of chess," head coach Alexandre Ryjik says while instructing a beginner. "It requires the endurance of a boxer and the brains of a chess player."
Finally, it is time for real action. Fencers are strapped into an electronic system that buzzes when the blunt-tipped foil makes contact, or, as Ryjik says, when you "shish-kabob" your opponent. Pleasantries, such as a pre-bout salute ("If you kill or die, you [do so] with honor" explains Ryjik) are exchanged, and the first person to five touches wins.
Ryjik's last bit of wisdom for a newbie? "Don't be nice."
-- Amy Orndorff
WHERE IS IT? Kennedy Recreation Center, 1401 Seventh St. NW.
WHEN IS IT? Saturdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Free!
WHERE CAN I FIND MORE INFORMATION? Call 202-684-7025 or visit http:/
