Spend a Week Learning Rapier Fencing!

[Sildar]

Redwood Rapier Camp 2003

July 13-19 in Arcata, California

The Humboldt State University Fencing Club and Martinez Academy of Arms are proud to announce that this summer, sword enthusiasts will have the opportunity to participate in the first rapier fencing camp of modern times. This is not a seminar on stage fighting, or recreational or competitive fencing, but serious training in a little-understood historical martial art as it was practiced in Europe 400 years ago!
For the week of July 13 through 19, Humboldt State University will host five days of instruction in the art of rapier combat. Participants may choose to study either the Spanish or Italian style of rapier fencing under the expert guidance of Maestro Ramon Martinez or Maestro Jeannette Acosta-Martinez, two of the world's most knowledgeable historical fencing instructors. All participants will receive hands-on training daily, with an emphasis on proper technique, self-control, and safety. There will be nightly lectures and discussions on several topics relevent to rapier fencing, including:

-The origins and history of the Spanish and Italian schools of rapier fencing
-The historical rapier Masters of the Spanish and Italian schools
-The theoretical foundations of the Italian and Spanish schools of rapier, and how they relate to practice and application
-The characteristics of the weapon, and how to select a proper rapier
-Training methods and tactics
-Fencing an opponent who practises another style

This seminar is a great training opportunity for fencers of all skill levels, from complete beginners to long-time practitioners of rapier fencing.

Housing:

Participants will stay in the Humboldt State University dormitories with fellow participants. Meals are provided by the Humboldt State University cafeteria. Room and board is included in the price of the seminar.

Travel:

Humboldt State University is located in the town of Arcata, which lies amid Redwood forests on the Northern coast of California, about 5 hours drive north of San Francisco.
The Arcata/Eureka Airport (ACV) offers flights to and from San Francisco and Portland. Bus or taxi service from the Airport to Arcata takes about 15 minutes.

Cost and Deadlines:

The total price for the seminar, including meals, housing, and tuition, is $600 for each person who registers by May 13, and $675 per person for those registering after that date. In order for space in the seminar to be reserved, a minimum deposit of $200 must be included with the application. Full payment is due by June 13, at which time all deposits are non-refundable.
Class size is limited, so be sure to register early!

Information and registration forms are available at www.martinez-destreza.com
All inquiries should be directed to Antone Blair:
sildar1@earthlink.net or (707) 826-0573

[Sildar]

Dear fencers,

We have a few exciting new developments regarding the first week-long intensive historical rapier camp of modern times. We are doing everything possible to make this the best rapier event the world has ever seen!

First, we are pleased to announce that we are now offering the option of day passes for those who cannot attend the entire camp. So, you can get the morning and afternoon training session AND the evening lecture for $100 per day! This way, those of you who can't get the entire week free but might be able to come out for the first day or two can still come and get some top notch instruction. And if you happen to be in town but cannot fence during the day, you can still attend evening lectures for $25 each!

Second, we are currently finalizing plans to have a professional photographer film the participants while fencing in the later part of the camp, so that participants have the chance to review their own fencing and get precise feedback on their individual strengths and weaknesses from the Maestros!

Finally, I would simply like to remind everyone that in order to be able to participate in the camp you must send in your registration and payment by this Friday, June 13! If you plan to attend, you must contact me BEFORE Friday in order to reserve a room, so don't delay or you'll miss out on the greatest rapier event of modern times!

See www.martinez-destreza.com for more details and registration forms.