Brentwood School fencers had a great weekend at the British Youth Championship in Telford enlisting a team of eight school fencers, who previously qualified for the event via their regional championships, in the Under 12, Under 14, Under 16 and Under 18 events.

Josefine Engel, Year 12, won the girls U16 event, carving her way through the field with steely determination.  Josefine cruised through the knockout stages, demolishing some of the top British foilists with her fast feet and accurate point-work. 

In the final she faced Alex Craig, the British number 1 and defending champion, in her closest fight of the day.  The girls traded hits with the scores level at 7-7 at the break.  David Taylor, Brentwood School's Head Coach, gave her some tactical advice which resulted in Josefine turning out a comfortable victory at 15-10.  The new National Champion said, "Winning the Nationals is a great feeling and I'd like to thank my coach and team mates for supporting me through the day."

The future looks good for fencing at the school with Jessica Love and Fleur Sumption finishing in the top 16 of the girls U12's and Max Saunders making the Top 32.

David Taylor summed up the weekend by saying, "Josefine fenced well and deserved to win.  If she continues to work hard we will start getting international results soon.  I'm also delighted with the results our youngsters put in this weekend.  Jessica, Fleur and Max are part of our development squad and will act as an inspiration to the rest of the team."