SWINDON and Prior Park foilist Charlie Robbins had a strong start to the new fencing season winning bronze in the boys Under 11 London International Fencing Tournament.

Robbins got off to a flying start, dominating his first pool, winning every bout, including beating the boy who would eventually go on to win the tournament.

His second pool was more challenging and his form dipped after a narrow loss to fellow Swindon and Prior Park fencer Ed Scott-Payne.

However, he always ensured he scored at least three points and found himself seeded 14th going into the direct elimination rounds.

His first two contests were comfortable 10-0 and 10-2 victories which saw him through to the last 16 where he dominated again winning 10-4.

His quarter-final bout was a tense affair as both boys were evenly matched and played to their strengths.

They fought point for point tying at 8-8 after time when they had to establish priority where one of the competitors is chosen at random to win if no point is scored in a further minute of fencing.

On this occasion, Robbins’ opponent had priority meaning he had to score to win which the Prior Park youngster achieved with a perfectly timed beat disengage attack to secure his spot in the semi-final with three seconds remaining.

In the semi-final he met an opponent he hadn’t fenced before and struggled with his style.

Although scoring four points, he went down 10-4 securing his bronze medal.

Other results from Swindon fencers at the competition were Scott-Payne (14th) and Ethan Teale (23rd).

Robbins said: “I knew the competition would be strong and came along to gain experience.

“It was a great day and I am thrilled to have won bronze at my first international competition.

President of Swindon Fencing Club Neil Bromley said: “Charlie fenced superbly, taking his time when needed and bouncing back strongly after a disappointing second seeding round.

“I’m incredibly impressed with the camaraderie between Charlie, Ed Scott-Payne and Ethan Teale. To have three boys placed in the top 25 bodes well for the future.”