Pre-nationals Musings

Packing for a national-level tournament is an interesting experience. Unlike a regular vacation, I am bringing swords. And unlike regular swords, I have to make sure that these beep. In addition to my swords, I have all sorts of white clothing and things such as lucky socks to pack. It's an odd feeling; I have to remember everything that I need to fence, but that won't happen for a few more days.

It may seem silly, but suddenly losing two pairs of long white socks is a bit of a stressful experience. Fortunately, both pairs of my "tournament socks" are in their proper location, as they should be, thank you very much.

On a more appropriate level of armory-related anxiety, my two-prong (foil) socket did not care for being part of an Italian foil (in order for it to work, the socket has to be at an angle[10 o'clock] instead of the position it normally is [9 o'clock]. This particular socket wouldn't work at an angle like that). However, due to the plethora of vendors at Nationals, I am not too worried.

On a more fencing-related note, I am having a feeling of "Well, then. Nothing else I can do now, is there?" I've done all the fencing I could have possibly done, taken all of my lessons, sparred, and done a multitude of practice bouts, 5, 10, and 15- touch, foil and epee. I know technique nearly inside and out, and have basic tactics down fairly well (applying them is an entirely different matter, of course). Now I just feel like a fisherman; I've cast out my rod and am just waiting to see what bites.

Physically, I'm ready; I have to be. Mentally, not quite; but I still have time to get there.