Georgina Usher, now the full time chief executive of British Fencing, has announced she will review priorities for the sport with the Board, looking in particular at “how better to deliver on the vital commitments to our members, sponsors and partners.”

Ms Usher said she was keen to build on the foundations bequeathed by Peter King, British Fencing CEO since 2012.  “Fencing has made great strides in recent years, especially in governance.  Our progress has been recognised by UK Sport (most recently through the creation of a Podium Potential Squad for sabre as part of the Fencing World Class Programme); and we enjoy significant support from Sport England and our longstanding partner Beazley.    

“But there is much to do. British Fencing has tough but exciting challenges to face, and we will need to grow and change as an organisation to meet them. I am firmly committed to giving many more people the opportunity to have a lasting and successful involvement with fencing. To do this I will be calling on help from our existing community to understand how we can create a better experience for all, irrespective of age and ability.”

David Teasdale, chair of British Fencing, said:

“Today marks an important change in momentum for us in the drive forward to achieve our goals.  We have a full time CEO –  who balances a wealth of experience across business with extensive fencing expertise –  to work with our Board and volunteers toward new and lasting achievement.  Georgina will have the Board’s full support in tackling the clear strategic goals to increase fencing participation significantly over the next decade, as well as excelling at international level.”  

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