What is the TWIST?
TWIST stands for ‘Tunbridge Wells Individual and School Team’. A full TWIST will feature team fencing and individual fencing in the afternoon, but sometimes we run just a team or an individual competition. Please note that TWISTS are epee-only. Generally, we’ll run three TWISTS per year. Often, males and females compete in separate categories, but we’re happy to mix it up as and when school team formation and entry numbers demand it. The top three teams and four individual fencers in each category win a medal (whoop!).
The TWIST on Sunday 28th September 2025 is individual only. The format is as follows. There will be a round of poules (fencers are divided into ‘mini leagues’ and fence each other to 5 points or to 2 or 3 minutes), and fencers are then seeded – based on their poule results – into direct elimination rounds (with a target score of 10 or 15 points and a maximum bout duration of 6 or 9 minutes).
Why is the TWIST?
The TWIST was created to provide a ‘first step’ external competition for fencers at RTWFC and the schools that coach Paul Beasley teaches at. We aim to organise events which are fun, friendly and encouraging, and yet provide the challenge of competing against fencers you don’t know.
Where is the TWIST?
The TWIST takes place at the home of RTWFC – Holmewood House School in Langton Green. Holmewood House, Barrow Ln, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells TN3 0EB. There is a one way system so please enter the premise via Barrow Lane.
Sounds good. When is the next TWIST?
It will take place on Sunday 28th September 2025. Please note: this is an individual event only – there is no team event this time. Here’s the timing – be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before your start time:
U10’s & U12’s: 09:30 – 12:30pm
U14’s & U18’s: 12:30 – 16:30pm
How much does it cost?
It’s £15 per person per event. Late Entries are permitted on the day of the event at an extra £5 charge.
How can I enter?
Please email your name, age, and BFA membership type and number to rtwfencingclub@gmail.com, and pay the fee (see below) to the club Lloyds account 30-90-90 37277468.
BFA membership… err, what’s that?
In order to participate in most competitions in Britain (and, indeed, to be insured to train at fencing clubs – with the odd exception of a school that has its own sports insurance which covers fencing), fencers need to be members of the British Fencing Association (BFA) – which is the national governing body for the sport. Whilst a free BFA ‘Introductory’ membership covers newbie fencers in their first 90 days of training, fencers who participate in recreational events such as the TWIST require at least a BFA ‘Starter’ membership (and those who compete at local, regional or national competitions will need a ‘Compete’ membership). A ‘Starter’ membership costs about £13 per annum for the under 13s.
So how do I obtain a Starter membership?
Information can be found here: www.britishfencing.com/members/membership-info/membership-types/
At the foot of the ‘Starter’ membership page you’ll find a ‘Join Now’ button, which takes you to the BF Sport 80 page. Once you’ve created an account, you then fill in various fields of information about the fencer. The only questions that baffle are national body (it’s England Fencing), region (South East) and club (you’ll find Royal Tunbridge Wells Fencing Club under T for ‘The’ in the menu).
OK, so that’s all sorted… but what should I wear to compete in the TWIST?
Wear sports shoes and either long sports socks or skins or some other sporty garment that fully covers the lower leg.
Can I drive to the venue?
Yes, Parking is Available. Upon exiting Barrow Lane in to the School grounds follow the main road past the buildings, to your left will be ample parking next to a large cricket field.
Is there space for my entourage to watch my inevitable victory?
Parents, family and friends are welcome to stay and watch the action – chairs will be placed round the edge of the hall for your fan club to set-up a base.
Is there somewhere to buy food and drinks on site?
Sadly not. Fencers must bring their own Food to the Twist as there are no nearby shops. Drinking water can be taken from the small kitchen down the hall to the right of the men’s changing rooms.