Innaugural
Horktoberfest
October 28, 1995
On the levee by the Mississippi, LSU Baton Rouge
About the Event
The innaugural Horcktoberfest was held on October 28, 1995 on the banks of the
Mississippi River as a celebration of spirit and friendship between some of the
membership of the regional fencing groups. This was an independent event
organized to remove the fencers from the typical surroundings of competition
and let them experience the sport in a new and wonderful way. It was conceived in
the twisted little minds of the Founders: Thomas Smailus, George Fuller, Beth
Hughes and Heather Chapman.
The competition was a resounding success as fencers fought valiantly during the
cool and sunny afternoon hours under the shade of the trees along the banks of
the great Mississippi. The specially devised rules added a hint of excitement
and danger to the event that all enjoyed. In the end there could be only
three, as we sought to determine a true champion in each of the three weapons;
there was no second place, only hope at acheiving first. Those interested can
view the rules of the event.
Who was there?
The Motley Crew
From left to right: Wes Dion, Allen Newell, Beth Hughes, George Fuller, Thomas
Smailus, Heather Chapman, Bart Kemper, Joseph "Biff" Giacone, Tiffany Jennings, Bart Hymel
Give me the prize!
The goal at the end of the day was to be in possesion of one of the three fine
medals which would be awarded to the champions in each of the three weapons:
God of Foil, God of Epee, and God of Sabre.
However, to claim thier prize, the fencers must remain awake and coherent until
midnight at the Horcktoberfest party which immediately followed the event later
that day.
What Happended?
We have a collection of photographs that were taken at the event and later at
the subsequent Halloween celebration.
We blow our noses in your general direction!
The Chest of Poisons
from which the victor must select!
The victor of each bout must choose a poison and take the shot before leaving the
strip. Food and other fluids were supplied to keep the fencers in the upright and
locked position.
Champions!
The Champions revel in their victories at the
end of a long day of combat; undaunted by the effort still awaiting them at the
party!
God of Sabre (left) George Fuller
God of Epee (center) Bart Kemper
God of Foil (right) Thomas Smailus
All images and design ©1995 CSFA
The Motley Crew
