An inspirational journey of a determined wheelchair fencer
“You need to have a can-do attitude. There is always a way.“ - Alan Mulally. Jonathan’s can-do attitude helped him to excel at wheelchair fencing sports. His sincere determination and hard work have won him gold in Mixed Sabre National Championships Novice Challenge. Jonathan also has the distinction of placing second in the British Fencing Personality of the Year Awards Dinner. To educate people about the life of a wheelchair athlete fencer, he has started the Wheelchair Fencer Blog.
When did you start competing in wheelchair fencing? What kind of challenges do you face while competing?J: I started in September of 2012 after a friend of mine told me about it.I face a Few due to my disabilitys and being Partilay Sighted.
Which is the most memorable championship for you and why?J: My recent and Only One I went and did the Novice Challenge which was Part of the Uk National Disabled Fencing Championships where I won a Joint Bronze in the Mixed Foil and a Gold in the Mixed Sabre.
What kind of training program do you follow for competition?J: I train with my trainer Viv Mills Once a Week at Chichester Fencing Club.
What challenges did you face during your school years? How did you motivate yourself to face those challenges?J: I was Bullied a lot mainly at Secondary School but I just learnt to ignore it.
Who is your favorite sports celebrity?J: My Idol is Beatrice Vio an Italian Wheelchair Fencer who has No Arms Below the Elbow and No Legs Below the Knee.
What are your other hobbies?J: I like hanging out with my friends and going out and Playing Video games and using Social Media.
What do you like to do when you are with your family/friends?J: Just hang out really and have fun
What is your favorite place to visit? What do you love about that place?J: Norway I have been cruising there a few times.
What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who are interested in learning to fence?J: come and Join it it is fab and is Very Good Exercise
Any special message for our community?J: Join Wheelchair Fencing and have a go it is so much fun.
