Meet the Wheelchair Fencing Stars of Team GB for Paris 2024

Gemma Collis has officially rounded out the British wheelchair fencing squad for the upcoming Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. The 31-year-old athlete, who embarked on her Paralympic journey at the London 2012 Games, is set to compete in the Women’s Category A Sabre and Épée events. This year marked a significant milestone for Collis as she clinched her first medal on the major championship scene, securing a European silver.

Celebrating the Squad

This ensemble of competitors showcases the very best of British wheelchair fencing. The squad is composed of a dynamic mix of talent and experience, ready to put the nation’s name in lights once again. Team members include:

Piers Gilliver – Competing in Men’s Category A Sabre and Épée (from Gloucestershire)

Dimitri Coutya – Competing in Men’s Category B Sabre, Foil & Épée (from London)

Oliver Lam-Watson – Competing in Men’s Category A Foil and Épée (from London)

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Gemma Collis – Competing in Women’s Category A Sabre and Épée (from Buckinghamshire)

The men’s team is equally formidable, with standout athletes coming together to represent the nation:

Men’s Team – Foil

• Piers Gilliver
• Dimitri Coutya
• Oliver Lam-Watson

Men’s Team – Épée

• Piers Gilliver
• Dimitri Coutya
• Oliver Lam-Watson

Penny Briscoe, the Chef de Mission at ParalympicsGB, expressed her enthusiasm for the team’s capabilities. She reflected on the squad’s accomplishments at the rescheduled Tokyo Games, stating, “Three years ago, our Paralympic wheelchair fencing squad really made the nation proud. Piers, Dimitri, Oliver and Gemma have already demonstrated their prowess this year, with impressive performances at World Cup events and the European Championships. I can’t wait to see what they can achieve in Paris this summer.”

The Path to Paris

For these athletes, the path to Paris is paved with determination and resilience. Each competitor has faced their own set of challenges and triumphs, all of which contribute to the rich tapestry of their athletic journeys. What drives them? Could it be the pursuit of glory, the thrill of competition, or the desire to inspire others?

Collis, for instance, has weathered the storms of countless tournaments. From her debut in London to now claiming European bronze, her commitment to the sport shines bright. Each match is not just another encounter but a testament to her unwavering spirit, reflecting a journey of hard work and dedication. As she prepares for Paris, Collis embodies the spirit of “never giving up,” showcasing how far perseverance can take an athlete.

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Class and Competition

The competition landscape in wheelchair fencing is as diverse as it is thrilling. With classifications that distinguish athletes by type and level of impairment, the fight for Paralympic recognition has never been fiercer. The three main categories—A (lower impairment), B (higher impairment), and team events—ensure that each fencer showcases their skill in a fair and competitive environment.

In recent years, the sport has seen a surge in popularity, with the International Wheelchair Fencing Federation (IWFF) continuously working towards improvements in coaching, facilities, and the overall competition framework. The 2023 European Championships, held earlier this year, saw a remarkable turnout with numerous nations showcasing their best athletes, creating exhilarating bouts that keep fans on the edge of their seats.

On the Global Stage

The forthcoming Paris Games promises to be a stage like no other—a chance for these athletes to not only chase medals but to also break records and exceed expectations. The spotlight will undoubtedly shine on Gilliver, Coutya, Lam-Watson, and Collis as they step onto the parquet floor in Paris, ready to wield their foils, sabres, and épées against formidable international opponents.

The stakes could not be higher. The ability to inspire and influence is inherent in their performances. Every point scored is not only a step closer to victory but an opportunity to ignite passion within budding athletes, serve as a beacon of hope, and demonstrate what is possible against the odds.

The Road Ahead

As the countdown to Paris 2024 continues, anticipation builds among fans, athletes, and supporters alike. How will the British squad fare against the world’s best? What stories of triumph and courage will emerge from the fencing arena? Each athlete approaches this significant moment not merely as competition but also as a celebration of their journey, an acknowledgment of their hard work, and a fervent aim to lift their country’s flag with pride.

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With the spirit of the Paralympics resonating throughout their veins, Piers, Dimitri, Oliver, and Gemma embody the strength and determination that define these games. As they prepare to embark on this latest chapter, one thing is for certain—the message is clear: the pursuit of excellence knows no bounds, and the true essence of sport lies in its power to inspire.