covering target

t.23 If during a bout the Referee notices that one of the fencers is making
use of the non-sword arm and/or hand, or is protecting or covering
the valid target with a non-valid surface, the Referee can call for the help
of two neutral judges who will be designated by the Bout
Committee. These judges, one on each side of the strip, will watch all
aspects of the bout and will indicate, by raising their hand or when
asked by the Referee, if the non-sword arm or hand has been used, or if the
fencer has protected or covered the valid target with a nonvalid
surface (cf. t.49, t.114, t.116, t.120).



"or is protecting or covering the valid target with a non-valid surface"
is the important part of this rule. ANY non-valid surface used to cover
target can result in a card.
This could be a difficult decision for the ref to make because it comes down
to intention of the fencer. Was the fencer making a broad parry and their
arm moved across their body, or were they intentionally covering target with
"a non-valid surface" ?

Bottom line - YES it is possible to be called for covering target by using
the weapon arm.


Bruce J. Heidebrecht