When people ask me why I fence, I tell them it is in my blood. It has been a part of my life since before I can remember. My mother was a member of the National Fencing Team for the USSR and spent 20 years of her life training and coaching. I was eight years old when I first tried fencing, and for nine years I fenced competitively, training twice a day with my father who coached me. I was able to travel all over the former USSR, meeting lots of other fencers and making lasting friendships. I describe myself as someone who grew up in a poor society that was rich with laughter, books, and sports. I gained many medals and titles through fencing, but more importantly, I gained the personality of a fighter and a passion for life.

After moving to Canada, I began to compete nationally, and won the Canadian National Championship in foil in 2007. Three years ago, I began to coach young fencers at a number of clubs in the GTA, including the Dragon Fencing Academy and Beaches Sabre club.

Egerton Castle, a nineteenth century fencer and author, believed that in a good fencer, the head works as much as the body. I want my students to compete with this mentality. Fencing is about understanding your opponents and learning how to out-think them. I strongly believe that anyone can gain success with self-discipline, hours of practice and mental preparation.

I am dedicated to teaching and promoting the sport of fencing among young people in Canada. This year, it is my goal to involve my new students in competitive fencing, and to introduce as many students as I can to this beautiful ancient sport!

En garde!
Katya Belkina