PUTTING INTO PRACTICE: Chris Butterworth, who put his coaching theories into practice when he won York Fencing Club's Merlin Cup

York Fencing Club's newest coach Chris Butterworth used much of his tactical and technical knowledge to scoop the prestigious Merlin League Fencing Cup.

Butterworth, 22, and a member of YFC for more than eight years, was one of 25 fencers from around the country who took part in the competition at York's Archbishop Holgate's School.

Also representing the York club were Dr Duncan Campbell and Stuart Lacey, the winner of the previous Merlin League Cup, with all three local foilists sailing through the first preliminary rounds.

Campbell, who has been fencing for only three years, then went out of the competition in the face of some stiff competition as both Lacey and Butterworth foiled their way into the finals.

Despite a knee injury, Lacey fought well before losing narrowly as Butterworth stayed on course to fight a barrage with Scotland's left hander Adam Griesly.

Though a formidable foilist, Griesly's attacks were not well timed as Butterworth counter-attacked and wrong-footed the Scot with a 5-2 victory.

Training twice weekly with the national coach at York Fencing Club, Butterworth has recently passed his exams on the way to become one of the youngest coaches in country.

Butterworth's beginners course starts on January 26 at Archbishop Holgate's School, York, starting at 7.30pm with all kit provided.

For more details telephone 01904 411341 or e-mail yorkfencing30@hotmail.com

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