Strathallan School student Joshua Bryden has been named U17 British Fencing Champion after he emerged undefeated at the Championships in Nottingham last month.
Already the U15 and U20 Scottish Fencing Champion, Joshua fought his way to the final, to be crowned champion following a 15-12 win over his opponent, solidifying his status as a rising star in the sport.
The 15-year-old from Auchterarder was the youngest fighter on the podium. However, despite his age, Joshua has honed his skills over the last two years through international competition. He has recently represented Great Britain in at tournaments in Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Poland and took to the piste at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in London last summer.
Joshua said that timing was key for his success in Nottingham.
“Taking the summer off training allowed me to recover and prepare adequately for the championships. Winning felt amazing, especially in a closely contested final. I maintained my composure and executed the techniques I’ve been practicing.”
When he’s not at school, Joshua dedicates himself to training at Salle Ossian Fencing Club in Perth, where he receives invaluable guidance from his coach, Professor Phil Carson.
“I’ve learnt so much from Professor Carson and being part of Salle Ossian means a lot to me,” added Joshua. “Heading to the British Championships as a team was a fantastic experience, and sharing the podium with Calum, who secured the Bronze medal, was amazing.”
Commenting on the Salle Ossian’s team success, Professor Phil Carson, said, “We put our success down to three things: all kids are talented, they just need the right environment to thrive: nothing works like hard work works: work hard for yourself and harder for others. Joshua and his team mates prove this approach creates amazing fencers, athletes and young people.”
Expressing his admiration for Joshua’s success, Director of Sport at Strathallan School, Jim Thompson, added, “Joshua’s outstanding achievement is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. We are immensely proud of his remarkable journey and eagerly anticipate the bright future that lies ahead for this young champion.”
Joshua will next compete in London, Bucharest, Istanbul, Romania, Germany and Barcelona. He has also been selected to compete for Team Scotland in the Cadet Class at the 2024 Commonwealth Fencing Games in New Zealand.
Categories: Strathallan School
