APF SHOW HOSTS BRITISH OPEN
The McVeigh Parker-sponsored British Open Fencing Competition was held recently at the APF show at the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire. The event featured thirteen two-person teams using traditional methods and hand tools to erect 65 meters of stock fencing in four hours. Judges evaluated the results based on three criteria: the straightness of the fence, the verticality of posts, and the quality of wire tension and knots.
Stuart Mills, Sales Director with sponsors McVeigh Parker, commented: “The British Open and the Speed Fencing competition proved to be a great success, with the competing teams showcasing the very best talents and capabilities of the sector. Competitors came from England, Wales, Scotland, Norway, and the USA, with everyone eager to learn from one another.”
The British Open also included the first-ever British Open Speed Fencing Competition on the previous day, where teams competed against the clock. This involved the installation of 65 meters of Xfence with three lines of wire, one installed for electric, using traditional methods and hand tools on the infamous Ragley Hall hill.
Stuart continued: “The Speed Fencing competition involved installing 32 meters of Xfence wire netting with three lines of wire and a top line designed to be electrified. Competitors challenged the clock using the latest innovations in fencing, including Clipex steel posts, Clipex insulators, Triple X steel strainers, and Xfence wire. All fences used the latest joining and tensioning technology from brands like Gripple and Strainrite.”
Cash and trophy prizes were awarded to the winners and runners-up, sponsored by Clipex, Xfence, Strainrite, and Gripple. The judges included Nicholas Liefting, a twice winner of the prestigious Golden Pliers, and Hugh Morrison, a well-known figure in the industry. Joining them was James Hill, a fencing contractor with over 30 years of experience, and Andy Barrett, who brought a wealth of knowledge to the panel.
An Anglo-American collaboration between Luke Gibson from the USA and Charlie Wright from the UK resulted in a first-place win in the speed competition. The winners and runners-up of the British Open Fencing competition 2024, sponsored by McVeigh Parker, demonstrated the high level of talent in UK fencing.
Mills added: “All of the contractors taking part demonstrated that UK fencing is in a great state of health, and McVeigh Parker was delighted to sponsor the event. Like all the fencers on show, we are committed to doing our very best for the industry and will continue to support this exciting and engaging competition.”
The APF Show also featured a Fencing Village, with trade stands representing fencing equipment, material manufacturers, and suppliers, including Fencing News. Visitors were able to see and compare products and watch some of the equipment in action. The three-day show also included other competitions and events such as the World Pole Climbing Championships and European Chainsaw Carving Championships.
Website: www.mcveighparker.com
