Blades send two to duel

Two women from the Oberlin College Flaming Blades traveled to Columbus over the weekend for another successful tournament. Due to equipment shortages caused by a lack of funding, only one fencer was able to participate in the women's épée competition. Fifth-year Catie Bull fenced well during the pool bouts and ended up tying for third place. Bull, defeated a rated fencer 5-4 during an exciting pool bout.

Bull (unranked herself), as well as sophomore Robin Kish, also entered the women's foil competition. Kish was unfortunately knocked out of competition early on. However, Bull made it to the third round of direct elimination, winning one bout 15-2. She eventually lost to the top-seeded fencer 13-6.

It was a very satisfying day," Bull said. "My final bout was against a very tough fencer but I had a lot of fun and was happy with my fencing overall. Getting six touches [points] against the top-seed was very satisfying."

The Flaming Blades will compete again on Dec. 19 at Kent State. Though the Flaming Blades have not yet figured out how they will pay for more equipment, they are nonetheless looking forward to fielding an even bigger team next semester as fencers from this fall's ExCo class move into the club.

Fifth-year Jay Gates is captain of the Oberlin College Fencing Club.