Student excels at fencing thanks to sports bursaries

St Catharine’s sports bursaries have supported the fencing career of Dan Twine, a third-year Natural Sciences undergraduate, who has excelled at competitions for the University team and at an individual level.

Dan is currently ranked 22nd nationally, making him eligible to represent Great Britain at international satellite competitions. A top 20 ranking would make him eligible for World Cup selection.

Dan explains, “This has all only been possible due to the generous funding I have received from College bursaries, which have allowed me to afford kit, travel, competition entry fees, and training costs that I otherwise would not have been able to.”

University competition highlights

Founded in 1896, Cambridge University Fencing Club (CUFC) is one of the longest running fencing clubs in the country. Dan was elected CUFC President this year, an indication of how significant his contributions have been in recent months.

At the Varsity match against Oxford in June 2021, Dan contributed to CUFC securing a victory for the second year running. He fenced all three of his fights without a substitution.

Last month, CUFC won all three of their British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) matches, with Dan clutching a victory for the last sabre match by beating the Oxford M2 anchor (strongest fencer) 12-3 to finish the overall match 45-43 from being 33-40 behind. Dan scored 24 hits and conceded just five hits across his three fights in the match.

Individual competition highlights

Over the summer, Dan achieved a bronze medal at the Royal Air Force Fencing Open, which was attended by 36 fencers in his weapon (sabre).

In November, he came 13th in the Senior National Championships after beating the 15th seed 15-1 and losing to the eventual bronze medallist.

Apply for a St Catharine’s sports bursary (Raven log in required).