The sound of clicking metal echoed throughout an exhibit hall at the fairgrounds in Costa Mesa on Friday, Feb. 17, during the first day of SoCal Swordfight 2023.
Throughout the weekend, 380 contestants from all over the United States and six other countries will compete in 18 tournaments with various weapons.
The swordfighting that will be on display differs from traditional Olympic-style fencing because the contestants move around a circle, not along a line, and more contact is involved. Swordfighters can do cuts, thrusts, grappling, pummeling and, even, some sweep kicks.
As event organizer Chris Ponzillo describes it: “It’s probably the most friendly violent sport I’ve ever been involved in.”
Ponzillo said the public is welcome, spectator passes are $20. The event runs through Sunday at the OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive. For more information, visit socalswordfight.com.
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