Rashid Makes Top 16 at Detroit NAC-W. Saber

Here's a video clip of me fencing in a direct elimination bout at the Detroit, Mi North American Cup (NAC)- Div II Women's Saber event. I finished 14th out 77. I want to thank my saber coach, Eduardo Basulto, for the physical and mental training that helped me make this result. I was so close to making the top 8. I won the DE in this clip but I lost the next one 13-15.

Saber in Detroit, Michigan-NAC D

Princess Rashid (me) @ Summer Nationals in Atlanta, GA

Well, I'm off to another big tournament, the North American Cup (NAC D) in Detroit, Michigan. This time, I will be fencing in the Div II Women's Saber Event on Saturday, March 12, 2011. I'm pretty excited.

However, I have been pretty stressed lately, with recovering from a hamstring injury,  taking coaches exam, traveling, and marketing my artwork. Not to mention, being a mom two active kids, etc...

Tuesday night,  my saber coach gave me an interesting lesson. It was mostly to fix my mind. Apparently, my stress was affecting my fencing...so he made me list my dreams and goals. Based on my list, it was clear that I need to relax and have some fun.

Hmmm.....Any suggestions?

My coach told me to resolve my psychological issues before the tournament so I will be able to focus and not be a house divided so to speak. I admit it will take a minute for me to do this but I have been in the zone before. I know how it feels.

On Saturday,  I will clear my mind and fence one touch at a time. I will keep you posted.....

Blackblades- Trailer to new film

This film documents the contribution of African-Americans fencers to the US Fencing. The trailer was debuted recently at the Arnold Sports Festival earlier this month. Very exciting!



To learn more, visit: www.fencing.net

You May Call Me- Moniteur of Foil!

You may call me a Moniteur de Fleuret...! Sounds better in the French..eh!?

I recently attended a United State Fencing Coaches Association (USFCA) Coaches Clinic in Atlanta, GA at my old club, Lotus Fencing Academy. One of my coaches and mentor, Walid Mahran, advised me to attend and take the practicum to get officially certified.

Let me just say, this whole certification process was very stressful BUT in the long run, it was worth it...I think!

The Moniteur level is a professional level fencing certification that is designed primarily for those wishing to teach or coach fencing in club, community and school programs without direct supervision. They give group classes and individual lessons to recreational beginners and up to intermediate level fencers that compete. 

Hopefully, one day you will call me, Master d'Armes.