I was thrilled when, during my work experience at the Daily Telegraph in November, I was asked if I would be happy to put-on a fencing demonstration for an Olympic seminar that they were hosting in January. It was another wonderful opportunity to showcase our sport and get everyone excited and thinking about the London Olympic Games.
BBC sports television presenter Sue Thearle hosted the event and did a magnificent job. After the seminar had ended it was British Fencing’s turn to take the stage. Sue interviewed Karim Bashir (commentator for the event), Susannah Wesley (referee) and Piers Martin before standing back to allow Liz Ng and myself fight it out to 10 hits. Being quite a small and intimate venue, the audience were able to feel a unique sense of involvement and engagement during the demonstration. I was more worried about taking out a light but fortunately Liz and I managed to contain our actions and nothing was broken!
After the demonstration, it was myself and Liz’s turn to take the stage for our interview. It was nice to be able to share with the audience our hopes and dreams for 2012 and beyond. Sue asked me where I was and how I felt when it was announced that London was to host the 2012 Olympic Games. This question stirred in me, all kind of emotions. I remember the day clearly. I was out and had just finished checking my equipment for an upcoming competition. I rushed to the nearest pub to find out who had won the bid. When the result was announced, I remember having tears in my eyes because I knew exactly how much it would mean not only to me, but to sport in this country. That day was over six years ago (can you believe!) and with the excitement building up around the Games, I cannot wait to see what will happen over the next 18 months. What were you doing the day the Olympic bid was announced? Leave me a comment and let me know!
It was great to hear such positive feedback after the demonstration and hopefully we helped generate even more Olympic excitement in the Daily Telegraph offices.
I’d like to personally thank Piers Martin, Karim Bashir, Susannah Wesley and Liz Ng for their help, and for making the demonstration run so successfully. I’d also like to thank Sue Thearle and The Daily Telegraph for being so welcoming and accommodating. A special thank-you must also go to Leon Paul for supplying the equipment for the demonstration, it made for an excellent back-drop!
All in all, it was a fab evening!
The event was streamed live on Telegraph TV. You can check out the highlights as soon as they get posted up on the Daily Telegraph Olympic business website. I will keep you informed!
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