So we have come to the end of the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos - the first senior and veteran event to be held in Africa.
It was at times chaotic but I am immensely proud we supported the event, gave our athletes the chance to perform, and as has always been the case with Welsh Fencing, left a lasting positive impression with all that we met and competed against at the championships.
Personally I had some amazing highs with Bronze in the Men’s Epee Individual and Gold in the Vet teams yesterday taking my career total to 9 medals (7 senior, 2 Veteran) but as is the case in competitive sport some tough losses especially in the Men’s Epee team event where we lost narrowly to England on Wednesday.
I want to thank the squad for their energy, passion and commitment throughout the week - you made it a special experience
One notable achievement was Oliver yesterday completing the full individual medal set in the vet events in one commonwealths winning gold in vet sabre, silver in vet epee and bronze in vet foil - an incredible achievement and then being part of the vet team gold as well! That's four medals in one day.
Thank you to Mike for being my partner in crime this week and to my wife Justine Savage for supporting me to follow my passion for the sport and coping with all my stresses prior, during and I suspect post these championships.
Onwards to 2030 where we will try and do it all over again!
Marc Burkhalter
Team Captain
Nigeria 2026
Commonwealths 2026 - Marcs Photo Album
