Amazing Earby fencer has returned from the British Fencing Youth Championship with a Bronze Medal, beating top fencers from around the British Isles.
Currently in the under-9 age group, Lucy-Belle is proving that – alongside natural talent – dedication and training really do make a difference.
This year, Lucy-Belle has been competing in a much wider range of tournaments and when permitted, due to age, those in the under-11 age category.
Currently leading the North West Junior Series (under-11) and the National Leon Paul Junior Series (under-9) and winner of the Yorkshire Youth Championship (under-10), the bronze medal for the under-10 British Youth Championship was a fantastic achievement as she is one of the younger fencers.
Lucy-Belle said: “I was aiming to be in the top 10 this year and I am really happy with third place.
“I would have liked the gold or silver but I did my best and I can go back next year and try again while all the other top fencers have to move into the next age group.”
Lucy-Belle trains at Skipton Fencing, where she is part of a fantastic club with an excellent level of fencing and follows in the footsteps of the current under-16 British Youth Champion and under-17 National Champion – Oliver Steed.
Oliver fenced in the European and World Youth Championships this year and Lucy-Belle has her eyes set on following his lead.
Ian Williamson, Lucy-Belle’s father said: “Training is really important to Lucy and she drives herself so much to achieve the level of excellence that she demonstrates.
“She is very keen to train but with so few resources available for young fencers, it is fantastic that Pendle Leisure Trust recognised her ability and provided space for her to train in addition to her coaching sessions in Skipton.
“All the family are very proud of Lucy-Belle, her success is a testament to her dedication and the hours and hours of training she has put in.”
Lucy-Belle is at a number of competitions before the summer break, including Portsmouth, Scotland, Chester and the start of the Yorkshire Youth League. She is also aiming for another success at the under-10 Epee British Youth Championships in August. She will then return to next year’s British Youth Championships - aiming for gold!