Haverstock Scores at the Paris Olympics

Between July 26th and August 4th, I had the privilege to volunteer at the most prestigious fencing event - the Olympic games. Not only did I get to see them taking place on my home soil, but I was fortunate enough to be selected for the Timing and Scoring team, for the Fencing events.

For a little more than a week, I split my time between my piste side seat (where I was ensuring that the information displayed about each bout was correct, for screens in the venue but also on TV and online streams) and the stands, manning the camera used by the video referees.

I saw almost every single match of the fencing Olympics, got to meet the athlete's, coaches and delegations, and forged bonds with fellow volunteers coming from all corners of the world.

My main weapon being epee, I was thrilled to watch the best men and women Epeeists fighting to earn the most coveted medal, and mark the history of the games. Also, I have always had a soft spot for Foil, and being piste side to see the French team beat the USA for bronze was exhilarating.

Under the glass roof of the grand palais, the noise of the 8,000 spectators was deafening, sometimes even preventing the athletes from hearing their referees! This was truly a competition like no other.

I recommend applying to volunteer at the next games, if you are able to. You will get to see and participate in the highest level of contest for our beloved sports, and you'll earn some pretty spectacular bragging rights.

Lionel