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The Classical Fencing and Historical Swordsmanship Exposition event of January 9th 1999 was successful, in spite of uncooperative weather. An ice storm prevented two of those scheduled to present demonstrations, Christopher Amberger and Maitre Adam Crown, along with the director for the exhibition bouts, Maestro John Sullins, from attending. It was fortunate that our European guests were able to arrive safely. I would like to extend a special word of thanks to all those who braved the weather and hazardous travel conditions to attend. In all, there were some two hundred spectators, besides the twenty-six or so participants.
I would also like to extend my deepest appreciation to Paul MacDonald and Gareth Hunt of the Dawn Duellists Society for their gracious participation in this historic event. Besides their presentation of Dusak technique which was very informative, they also chose this event to exhibit the Spada in Arme. According to Mr. MacDonald, this was the first time one of these rare weapons has been constructed in five hundred years. The event also marked another first, for never before have Filipino martial artists been invited to take part in an exhibition of European swordsmanship. A special note of thanks for this is extended to Master Rey Galang of Bakbakan International for bringing his demonstration team to present an overview of the Filipino martial arts taught at his school. I also wish to express my deepest gratitude to Maestro Andrea Lupo Sinclair, who came from Milan, Italy to present a highly informative demonstration of sword and buckler. As a professional, I can say without reservation that it was a pleasure to witness someone who has truly mastered this style.
Finally, I would like to thank the students of the Martinez Academy of Arms, for their help and participation in organizing and promoting the event. Special thanks go out to David Laloum and John Kovacs. David was our Master of Ceremonies and insured the program ran smoothly, even though we had to make last minute changes, and John, who presented a demonstration of Renaissance grappling techniques, has been a valued asset to the school. I very much appreciate all his hard work.
In closing I wish to express my most sincere gratitude to my wife Jeannette who was a driving force in her position as director of this event. This event would never have happened, if it were not for her determination in getting everything organized.
Sincerely,
Maestro Ramon Martinez
For a review, including photos, in the Academy of European Medieval Martial Arts (AEMMA), see this page.
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