At Brooklyn Bridge Fencing, we know that preparation is key to success in any competition. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or new to the tournament scene, getting your equipment ready is crucial to performing your best. Follow this detailed timeline and checklist to ensure that you’re set up for success!
4-5 Days Before the Tournament: Equipment Check and Repairs
The first step to a smooth tournament experience is making sure all your equipment is in top condition. About 4-5 days before your departure, take the time to:
1. Submit Any Equipment for Repair:
If any of your equipment needs fixing, now is the time to send it out for repairs. This includes any broken cords and weapons. Be proactive—don’t leave it to the last minute!
2. Order Any Needed Equipment:
If you’re running low on essentials like tip tape, springs, screws, blades, or bodycords, place your orders early. You don’t want to find yourself scrambling for the right equipment the day before the tournament.
2 Days Before Leaving: Test Your Equipment and Make Final Adjustments
The second-to-last day before you leave is for fine-tuning your equipment:
1. Test All Equipment:
Ensure everything is in working order. Test your weapons, cords, and other equipment. Make sure that everything is functioning properly so you can make any necessary repairs.
2. Make Final Repairs:
If you find any last-minute issues, get them fixed immediately. Check your body cords and make sure there are no loose connections. Tighten everything up to ensure reliability during the tournament.
The Last Day of Practice: Final Prep Before the Tournament
Before you step into the competition, you need to ensure that your weapons are ready for action:
1. Pass the Weight Test:
This is a critical step to ensure that your weapon meets tournament regulations. Make sure the spring holds up 500 grams.
2. Re-tape Your Weapons:
Make sure your weapons are properly. Fencers cannot score touches without properly taped weapons.
3. Tighten Everything: Barrels, Screws, Weapons, Sockets, Bodycord Connectors
Packing Your equipment: Pay Attention to Details
When it’s time to pack for the tournament, remember that your equipment might be subject to some bumps during travel:
1. Check Your Equipment After Flying:
Airplane vibrations can cause loose parts on your weapons. After you’ve unpacked your equipment, double-check the tightness of the screws on your weapons, tips, and body cords. Loose connections cause off-target lights.
2. Bring Essential Tools:
Be sure to pack a test box, weight, roll of tip tape, tip screwdriver, and a hex wrench/allen key/tightening tool for your foils. Don’t forget athletic tape for your fingers!
At the Competition: Equipment and Time Management
1. Check Your Equipment Early:
As soon as you arrive at the competition venue, check your equipment. If possible, do this the day before your event. If your first event has an early start, this gives you a little extra time to ensure everything is working properly.
2. Arrive Early for Proper Warmup:
We recommend arriving at the venue 1hr 15min to 1.5hrs before the close of registration. This will give you ample time to warm up properly and get into the right mindset.
- If your first event starts at 8 am but the venue only opens at 7 am, make sure your equipment has already been checked the day before. Arrive at the venue 5 minutes before doors open to give yourself time to prepare.
3. Stick to Our Warm-up Routine:
Do the same warm up, footwork, and fencing that you do regularly at the club. This consistency will help you feel more comfortable and focused during the competition. You should also fence a full pool of bouts to get your body in the competition rhythm.
4. Warmup Strips:
Once the club secures a warmup strip at a competition, do not share it with fencers from other clubs until all BBFC fencers have had their chance to warm up. It’s crucial that you’re fully prepared before heading into your event.
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Final Thoughts: Confidence and Preparation Go Hand in Hand
Proper preparation is not just about getting your equipment in order; it’s also about setting yourself up mentally and physically for success. By following this checklist and sticking to your routine, you’ll ensure that you’re ready to give your best performance. The Brooklyn Bridge Fencing Club is here to support you every step of the way—whether it's with equipment checks or advice on how to mentally prepare for a tournament.