Auchterarder's Joshua Bryden reflects on being crowned British fencing champion

Perthshire’s Joshua Bryden is reflecting on becoming U17 British fencing champion.

The Strathallan School student emerged undefeated from the championships which were held in Nottingham last month.

Already the U15 and U20 Scottish fencing champion, Joshua fought his way to the final before recording a 15-12 win over his opponent.

It was a performance - and result - which solidified his status as a rising star in the sport.

The 15-year-old, who is from Auchterarder, was the youngest fighter on the podium.

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,” he explained.

“Winning felt amazing, especially in a closely contested final. I maintained my composure and executed the techniques I’ve been practicing.”

When 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, prof 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