Are local events (like Baycup) open to spectators?

[OriginalMe]

I see on www.thebaycup.com that there is an event this weekend at the Golden Gate Fencing Club but it's not clear if it is open to spectators. Are these type of events usually open to people who just want to watch the fencing or are they meant for just the participants?

_OM_

[KD5MDK]

I have never heard of a fencing tournament that didn't welcome spectators (except the Vodka Cup, which was run in secret because of its format, and wasn't really a tournament).

So I'd say you're safe to attend.

[keith]

even better there is generally no requirement to pay for admission.

Air horns are generally frowned on though.

[Peach]

You may find yourself keeping score. Or refereeing

[akaiyuki]

Any local tournaments should be open to spectators and no admissions will be charged unless specifically stated. I'm sure the baycup events welcome spectators. But just like peach said you might find yourself keeping score, or refereeing. Or if you don't know how -- you can at least keep track of time. You can always refuse tho, they won't kick you out. Plus they usually have other fencers not currently fencing do it.

[KD5MDK]

I've never been pressed into service as a referee, but then this weekend is the first time I'll have attended a tournament as a spectator since the last Div I NAC D.

[JMcC]

I see on www.thebaycup.com that there is an event this weekend at the Golden Gate Fencing Club but it's not clear if it is open to spectators. Are these type of events usually open to people who just want to watch the fencing or are they meant for just the participants?

_OM_

Bay Cup events are "open" to spectators, and there is no fee to watch, but the area is hotbed of fencing, so most clubs are set up to maximize the number of strips which means room for spectators is miniscule. What with the competitors, their equipment and their friends and families, it's usually S.R.O.

[edew]

This weekend's epee event at GGFC is not a Bay Cup event. It's just listed on the schedule because it's a local event and the Bay Cup website receives a lot of traffic concerning local and regional competitions.

That said, anyone can attend any events (Bay Cup or no). Admission fee is usually $0, unless specifically stated. So for you, we'll specifically state the fee is $25/day, mezzanine level viewing. Orchestra level viewing is $50 and nose-bleed section is just $15 (all per day, of course).

[jrgunn]

Ooooh. Charge admission? What an interesting idea. Of course, if people start paying for the privilege, they'll start expecting things...like jumbotrons, mascots, concession stands, and (going waaay over the top), a Place to Sit.

Just go and watch, the only rules are stay out of the way and Don't Step On The Reel Cords.