Rashid Earns the Gold At Sunshine State Games In Women's Epee!

Princess Rashid wins the Gold and Bronze at the
2011 Sunshine State Games Fencing Competition

Last weekend in Lakeland, FL, I competed in The Sunshine State Games Fencing Championships. Think of the Games like the state Olympics. Most states have them. I am pretty proud of my performance. As of now, I am the 2011 Women's Epee Champion (Gold Medal) and the Women's Foil Bronze Medalist!  Woo hoo! That was fun!

To read about Day 1, refer to previous post [link]. 

Day 2-Women's Epee. Result: Gold Medal (renewed B-rating) Yay!

I was so sore when I woke up on Sunday.  I wondered what I was doing fencing in this event. But I had hoped to finish well and my Epee Coach (Boyko) believed in me. So I showed. I'm just glad my friend and teammate, Michela, drove us to the event.

Because of my injury, I felt it was very important to ice and get stretched out by the PT guys early on but they weren't there by close of check in for my event which was around 8:30 am. I stretched a little and had a awkward lesson with one of my coaches. It seemed awkward to me mainly because I fenced foil intensely the day before but now I had to start thinking epee and needed to adjust. I felt as if my coach was a little frustrated by having to correct my foil "errors". I however, accept that the awkwardness is natural and maybe necessary to make the transition.

Despite the problematic lesson, I finished in 1st place winning the gold medal. I think it was good that I was made aware of the needed adjustment by the lesson. Throughout the day, my epee coach Boyko, was there for me quietly reminded me of the needed adjustments and tactical assessments.

I have to say, the bouts in the semi final and the final were so intense.  All the fencers should be commended!

I give thanks to my God for clarity of mind and alertness, my two coaches, Boyko and Sasha, everyone that helped me with my leg, my family and teammates for support!

Princess