Beardmore, Hazelwood & Lennon Qualify as International Referees

Following a new initiative of running a mock FIE referee exam and seminar, British Fencing are pleased to announce that all three of the British referees entered for the recent FIE exam held during the Eden Cup have successfully passed their FIE exams. Daniel Hazelwood, Chris Lennon and Alex Beardmore agreed that the mock exam aided their preparation and eventual success.  Passing these exams means that these referees are now eligible to officiate on the senior international circuit.

Vilem Madr, an FIE referee from the Czech Republic led the seminar and said; “The mock exam was a great opportunity to simulate real exam conditions.  This theory and video refereeing test was helpful for the candidates.  They were able to see how tricky and stressful each part of the international FIE exam can be.  It was also a new challenge for me.”

Speaking about passing the exams, Chris Lennon said; “I’m very pleased to have passed my exam and I am grateful for all the support I have had from British Fencing. The mock FIE exam and seminar run by Vilem Madr provided invaluable experience and was extremely helpful in preparing me for the day.”

Alex Beadmore added; “I’m so happy to have passed the FIE exam and I’m really looking forward to increasing my refereeing experience throughout Europe.  A huge thanks to British Fencing for their support!”

There will be a second mock FIE exam will focus on epee and is to be held on the 13^th & 14^th January.  Spanish FIE referee, Daniel Vazquez will lead the seminar. Unfortunately, the proposed sabre mock has had to be cancelled as none of the potential sabre candidates could make the only date available.

The next set of FIE exams will be held during the Cadet and Junior European Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria in March and British Fencing are hoping to enter four of our pathway program referees as candidates.

British Fencing is also pleased to announce that Nick Payne has been selected to referee at the Cadet and Junior World Championships in April this year, which is also being held in Plovdiv.  Congratulations to Nick.