Team GB is one of the world’s best at the Olympic Games, consistently winning medals across various sports, especially those offering multiple medal opportunities. However, historically and in recent years, fencing and judo have not been among them. Six young fencers, however, are determined to change this trend, and their recent performances suggest a promising future (1/2).
The UK ranks third in the all-time Olympic medal standings and is very likely to move into second place after the Los Angeles Games. Yet, success in fencing has remained elusive, with only nine Olympic medals in history and just one gold Gillian Sheen’s victory in the women’s foil event at the 1956 Melbourne Games. The most recent British fencing medal dates back to the 1964 Tokyo Games. However, this long drought may come to an end in 2028, thanks to six young fencers who, despite their youth, are already competing at the highest level.
Jaimie Cook:
In his debut Senior World Championships, Jaimie Cook made a strong impression with six victories in the pool stage, securing direct qualification for the round of 64 alongside Marcus Mepstead and Kristjan Archer. It was an outstanding start to his first senior World Championships, especially in his maiden season at this level.
At just 18 years old, Cook already boasts an impressive track record: senior national champion, World Cup winner in 2023, and a European Championship medallist at cadet and junior levels in 2022 (bronze in individual foil, silver in team foil). He also competed at the European Games in Krakow this year, narrowly missing out on a team medal. Currently, he ranks third in the junior world foil rankings.
His journey began at the age of five under the guidance of his father and coach, Keith Cook, a former international fencer. By 14, Jaimie had already won a senior tournament, defeating national team members. “That was the moment I realised I could achieve great things,” he recalls. He even competed at the 2023 World Championships at just 18, where he lost 15-13 to a Danish opponent who went on to eliminate Italy’s two-time Olympic medallist Daniele Garozzo.
For Jaimie, competing at the Olympics would be a dream come true. “Going to the Olympics would be incredible,” he says, reminiscing about watching the London 2012 Games on TV. His father sees this journey as a chance to guide his son to the highest level: “Talent is great, but without hard work, it’s not enough. The Olympics aren’t just about participation; they’re also an opportunity for a medal.” Having come close to qualifying for Paris 2024, Jaimie is now focused on securing his place for Los Angeles 2028. If his progression continues, he could be one of the stars of the event.
Cador Beautyman
With a name like his, it’s hard to go unnoticed. At 18, Cador Beautyman, who trains at the University of Bath, is currently ranked ninth in the under-20 world rankings. He represented Great Britain at the European Youth Fencing Championships in Naples, Italy, from February 22 to 25, competing both individually and in the team event.
Beautyman, originally from Wroughton, started fencing at the age of eight with the foil before switching to the épée, the sport’s longest and heaviest weapon. He first made a name for himself on the local circuit before reaching 11th place in the European under-17 rankings.
After a breakout year, he admits it still feels “a bit surreal” but is enjoying his success. His ultimate dream? To win an Olympic gold medal, though his current focus is on improving his technique and enjoying the journey. “Patience and endurance are crucial because a competition day is exhausting,” he explains, describing the physical toll of this demanding sport. Recently, he competed at the Junior World Cup in Basel, finishing 22nd out of 258 fencers—on his 18th birthday.
His mother, Sian Beautyman, highlights the financial challenges of competing internationally. “We’re desperately looking for a sponsor to help cover some of the costs. There’s not as much money in British fencing as in other sports (due to the country’s Olympic results),” she explains. She also points out the vicious cycle of funding: only consistent Olympic success would attract more public investment.
Alec Brooke
Among the three fencers mentioned, Alec Brooke is arguably the most talented and boasts the most impressive track record. In his senior debut at the 2024 European Championships, he was eliminated in the round of 16. However, his greatest achievement so far remains his silver medal at the 2024 Junior World Championships.
Brooke claimed silver in the men’s junior épée event after an outstanding day of competition. In the final, he faced Switzerland’s Alban Aebersold in a thrilling match that ended 14-14, with Alec just missing the final point. “It was an incredible day of fencing. I felt strong and confident in every bout,” he said. “In the final, I was physically and mentally exhausted, and the pressure was intense, but I’m really happy with my performance.”
His coach, Tamas Kovacs, who has been training him since he was five years old, praised his display: “It was a pleasure to see him in top form right from the start, dominating his key opponents.” Though the final loss was tough to digest, they are now focused on the next step.
Earlier, in 2022, Alec Brooke had also excelled at the Junior and Cadet European Championships, winning two silver medals in the junior individual and team épée events, as well as a bronze medal in the cadet individual épée.
Next : The Six Young British Fencers Looking to End the Country’s Olympic Drought (2/2)
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