Favorite Moments From 2014: Part Two

This is the second of a series of posts where jousters, ground crew and photographers share their favorite memories of the 2014 jousting season. You can see Part One by clicking on the link.

Alison Mercer (photo by Azul Ox)

Canadian jouster Alison Mercer of Calgary shares her favorite memories of the 2014 jousting season:

In a wonderful season of tournaments, it can be challenging to choose a moment that sticks out.

For me, I can trace it back to a morning in January when I got a message out of the blue from Justin Holland in Australia, with an invitation to ride at the Abbey Medieval Festival Tournament in July. It was a surprise; apart from Lysts on the Lake in Texas 2012, I had never ridden outside of Canada and didn't expect to again so soon. On the heels of Justin’s note, came a message from Sarah Hay with an invite to her tournament one week prior to Abbey.

Seven short months later, I was on a plane headed across the Pacific, armour in tow, with snippets of advice from friends: “Don’t pet the insects,” etc... After riding Sarah’s splendid Tournament Australis, we packed up and started the trek to Abbey Festival outside of Brisbane.

Abbey was an absolute delight. The tournament was spectacular – clockwork organization, excellent venue, wonderful crowd, and an MC that made you feel like a damned celebrity. Integral to this all were the ground-crew, who knew their business inside out. It was a lightening fast, hard-hitting tournament and while jousting constitutes the ‘meat’ of these experiences, it was the people who really made the trip for me.

Watching Justin ride, precise and deadly, was one thing. Working with and getting to know Sarah over two and a half weeks was another. From my introduction to the sport in 2010, I always thought she was the bees-knees – fine rider, brave, determined, and with very nice kit. But If I had to pick a specific moment, it would have been on the road between Sydney and Brisbane when we stopped for the night at the Grafton fairgrounds. After the horses were settled, I remember looking up at the Southern Cross and thinking, for the first time, just how far this sport had brought me. (Getting to know a certain MH at Brooks Medieval Faire was an added bonus…)

Looking forward to 2015!

Alison Mercer(left) jousts Sarah Hay(right) (photo by Dreamcoat Photography)

Another Canadian jouster, Marc Hamel of Quebec, talks about his favorite moment:

I could say that winning the Scrothym Cup at Revel Grove was an amazing moment, but my favorite of the season was at Brooks Medieval Faire International Tournament (Alberta,Canada). Got myself injured on the first day and was done for the tournament.... However ... I was fraternizing with a fellow jouster, Alison Mercer, and discovered that we had more in common than just the jousting. I can proudly say that meeting her was a revelation and truly my favorite moment of my jousting season.

Alison Mercer(left) and Marc Hamel(right) at Brooks Medieval Faire 2014
(photo by Grant Zelych)

Caroline LaBrie helps Nicola Corrarello
with his armour, Brooks 2014
(photo by Twyla Brower Wehnes)

Jouster Caroline LaBrie(also of Quebec, Canada), has fond memories of acting as ground crew for the Brooks Medieval Faire International Tournament:

Summer passed by so fast. I was caught pretty early at the beginning of the year in the organization of both Les Pas d'Armes du Papegault and the Tournoi International de joute du Duché de Bicolline.

During my numerous exchanges with other competitors, my "Facebook friend" Radar Goddard (whom I had never met in person at that time) was also taken by the organization of the Brooks Medieval Faire International Tournament. Due to a cancellation, they were missing a judge, and we spontaneously arranged a trip for me to Alberta, where I would discover a different part of the country – as well as other fellow jousters – and reunite with old friends.

These were my only days off from work, and it was such a pleasure to help out the best I could in a tournament environment. It was simply amazing to meet others who shared my passion and to develop strong bounds with some persons. It reminds you every time of why we are doing this hobby, and why we are attracted by the middle ages and some of its romantic symbols. Within the whole wide world, a community sharing the same passion and similar values, the creation of a faithful bond between such quality persons. It does make a big world smaller. Again, I would like to thank Radar and STALC's wonderful crew for this precious opportunity!

Some of the crew and jousters of Brooks International Jousting Tournament 2014
(photo by Twyla Brower Wehnes)

Patrice Rolland holds aloft the Prize for Chivalry,
Arundel 2014 (photo by Stephen Moss)

Continuing with our Canadian jousters, Patrice Rolland of Quebec shares his favorite memories of 2014:

Last December I moved with my wife into our new place, a hobby farm, so finally our horses will be home, what a new challenge! But in July there was a bigger one, my first overseas trip; to Arundel Castle with my teammate Steve R. Gagnon. We were representing the French team for the tournament held at the foot of the castle. We lived there for one week, a dream come alive. What an experience! To top it all, the Lady of Honour chose to give me the Prize of Chivalry. What an honour!

As if this was not enough, coming back to Quebec to get ready for the first international tournament produced by Arion at the Duché de Bicolline, with seven nights, four teams and a big, big happening. A first for my Canadian horse Porto. Together we managed to win the Master Jouster 2014...

Patrice Rolland holds the prize for winning the jousting competition at Bicolline 2014
(photo by Eric Dube)

... and also the Team Championship with Sean George as my teammate.

Patrice Rolland and Sean George Team Champions for Bicolline 2014
(photo by Eric Dube)

A wonderful time, a great tournament, a great year!

To conclude, well, there's nothing like home, and when I joust I feel like home! I hope that the next year brings all kinds of new memories and new challenges.

We go from Canada to the UK to hear from Patrice's teammate at Bicolline, Sean George:

I would firstly like to thank The Jousting Life for the continued support and interest in this fine arena of Jousting! We appreciate it! [Editorial note: Thank you, Sean!]

For me, 2014 was a fantastic year of Jousting! I have many fond memories, some great events and a lot of camaraderie amongst my fellow Jousters, both on the Jousting Circuit and also with my teammates from Destrier at Bosworth Battlefield.

I have a couple of fine moments that really shine for me, and both of them were abroad at WorldJoust Tournaments.™ One was at Tournoi International de Joute du Duché de Bicolline in Quebec. We were welcomed and treated well by our hosts, and along with my fine teammate, Patrice Rolland, we became Team Winners!

Patrice Rolland and Sean George Team Champions for Bicolline 2014
(photo by Eric Dube)

My other very fond memory and overall fantastic experience was at the Tournament of King John III - Gniew Castle in Poland. Both myself and my good friend Steve Mallett as Team England became Team Winners!

Sean George and Steve Mallett, Team Champions at the Tournament of King John III Gniew Castle 2014 (photo by Studio A)

We had amazing hosts who really took care of us all and made our visit a fun and cherished memory.

– Seán George, Jouster

Sean George jousts Wouter Nicolai at Gniew 2014 (photo by Studio A)

More Favorite Moments coming soon!

Do you have a favorite moment from 2014? Please share it in the comments.

Related articles:
Burgundian Alliance Wins Team Championship at Arundel International Tournament 2014

Patrice Rolland and Sean George Win the Team Championship of Tournoi International de Joute du Duché de Bicolline 2014

Interview with Sean George, Half of the Winning Team England at the Tournament of King Jan III at Gniew Castle 2014

Interview with Sean George, Half of the Winning Team England at the Tournament of King Jan III at Gniew Castle 2014

The Tournament of King Jan III took place June 27 - 28 at Zamek Gniew(Castle Anger) in Poland. There were both a Team and an Individual competition.  Petter Ellingsen of Norway won the individual competition.  Team England, made up of Sean George and Steve Mallet, won the Team Competition.

Team England, Steve Mallet and Sean George, at Zamek Gniew 2014
(photo by StudioA)

Sean George kindly agreed to answer a few questions about himself and the tournament:

When and how did you become involved in jousting?
I first saw contemporary jousting at Herstmonceux Castle in Sussex, UK around 2002. The jousting group was Destrier, and I spoke with Rob Martin afterwards for advice. I immediately took intensive riding lessons from my friend and fellow Jouster Steve Mallet. He recommend me to Destrier as a potential Jouster. I Joined Destrier – at that time run by Dominic Sewell – in 2003, and I won my first tournament back at Herstmonceux Castle in 2005.

Considering all the different aspects of jousting, what are you currently focused on improving?
I am making upgrades to my armour and equipment which is an ongoing project.

Please tell us about your armour.
My Armour is a Milanese Harness, which I based on the painting of St George by Andrea Mantegna 1460 with the exception of the arm harness which is copied from a 1470 Milanese harness with a German influence from Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany, Museum im Prediger. I love how the arms look and work for me, the cuirass is fairly new and fits great!I would like to change my pauldrons but for now I will be adding new re-enforcement plates. Under my armour I wear an Italian style arming doublet based on a fresco of King Syphax 1435 - 1445 (fol 2825v), Istituto al Gabinetto, Rome.

Sean George, at Zamek Gniew 2014(photo by Marta Kitta)

What is the story behind your heraldry?
The Heart and wings that I am currently using on my Shield is the same as on my helm and is Inspired by Rene D'anjou book of love - Le Livre du Cueur d'Amours Espris. My motto is 'Amor Vincit Omnia'(Love Conquers All).

Besides jousting, what else do you do?
I am an actor working in Film and Television. I also work as a lookalike for Corporate Events in the entertainment Industry, the characters I portray range from Captain Jack sparrow, The Mad Hatter, Willy Wonka to Mr Spock!

How did you become a competitor at the Tournament of John III?
I was Invited to Compete at The Tournament of King John III by Jan Gradoń, it was the first time that I competed there.

Please tell us about the horse that you rode during the tournament.
The Horse that I rode during the Tournament was named Medela, she is a Silesian horse. Medela belongs to the Polish Husarria, Krystian Mróz. I can see that she is used to Mounted Skill at Arms(MSA) training along with Jousting and Jumping, and man is she fast! We got used to each other very quickly and she was very responsive to my signals, she did everything I asked of her and I thank Krystian Mróz for allowing me to ride her.

Sean George competing in MSA with the Silesian horse Medela(photo by StudioA)

When you are in the lists waiting to compete, is there anything special that you do?
I try to relax, breath and focus, If I am calm then hopefully my horse is too, I think about horse control, then just focus on the job at hand.

What was/were your favorite moment(s) of the tournament?
Over all I enjoyed Jousting against some fine competitors, the fact that we all had something in common and the mutual respect.

What would you like to say about/to your teammate Steve Mallet?
Steve Mallett? He's a big softy underneath a tough exterior! But seriously I have so much respect for him as a true horseman, the man taught me to ride, he's a good friend and as Team England we rocked!

Sean George(left) and Steve Mallet(right), Team winners at Zamek Gniew 2014
(photo by StudioA)

What would you like to say about/to this year's other participants?
The Polish could not have been more hospitable to us, they were amazing hosts fronted by Jarek Struczynski – a real nice man. I truly enjoyed Jousting against all of the competitors and have a lot of respect for them, there was a lot of camaraderie in the Lists. I would like to thank ALL involved for making the Tournament such a great spectacle for the public and an amazing experience for us.

What are your plans/hopes for the future?
I will be competing in Jousts here in the UK as well as Le Tournoi International du Duché de Bicolline, Quebec later in August.
My hopes are to advance my Acting career and be successful within my work.

Sean George, at Zamek Gniew 2014(photo by StudioA)

Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions and best of luck in the future!

Related articles:
Team England and Petter Ellingsen Win the Tournament of King John III

An Interview with Jan Gradon, Coordinator of the Tournament of King John III at Gniew Castle

An Interview with Jan Gradon, Coordinator of the Tournament of King John III at Gniew Castle

Jan Gradon is one of two main organizers (Jarek Struczynski is the other one) for the largest international jousting tournament in Poland, Turniej Króla Jana III Sobieskiego na Zamku w Gniewie. Outside of Poland, the joust is generally referred to as the Tournament of King John III at Gniew Castle. Jan graciously agreed to be interviewed about this year's 23rd annual tournament.

Jan Gradon(photo by Andrzej Wiktor)

Hello Jan, please tell us a little about yourself.

I’ve been involved in historical re-enactment since 1996/7, but at first it was not that "historical". I got more into it around 2001, when I first traveled to England for the Battle of Tewkesbury and other events abroad, and then when I joined the Society of St. Michael Archangel (TaŚMA) in 2004 and my equestrian re-enactment group Xiazeca Druzyna in 2005.

With the group, we portray many periods, from Normans through 13th century knights and Rus warriors, early 15th century with the battle of Tannenberg, mid/late 15th century (we started jousting roughly in 2006/7), 17th century with Polish national cavalrymen and Finninsh Reiters, 2nd Ulhan Regiment of Grand Duchy of Warsaw from the Napoleonic Times to Polish cavalrymen of WWI. We also have a horse archery team within our group, that participates in horse archery contests. In the plans there are Romans too. The group trains due to massive help from our stables Pa-Ta-Taj near Warsaw. They train us also in "normal" riding – dressage, horse jumping, etc.

Jan Gradon, riding Briar, jousts Mark Caple at Arundel International Tournament 2013. In the bottom left is Jan's friend and squire, armourer Tomek Samula(photo by Richard Pearn)

From my past experience, the best equestrian memories I have are: Hastings 2006 where we were riding in Dom Sewell’s conroy, and I was riding his horse George [a 'conroy' is a name for a Norman cavalry troop]; my first international joust in Gniew Castle in 2008; winning of Tournament of the Phoenix 2011, and second place in 2013; Le Tournoi du Lys d'Argent in Canada in 2012 where I was unhorsed; and getting into the final (and losing by 1 point as a team, and receiving 2nd individual score) at Arundel International Tournament last year.

Besides jousting I do skiing in winter and do quite a bit of wargaming and painting miniatures. I enjoy a family life with my wife Ula and two daughters, Marysia and Zosia, and our border collie Gibon.

Jan Gradon with his wife Ula and their two daughters(photo by Andrzej Wiktor)

When and how did the Tournament of King John III get started?

The Tournament of King John III started in Gniew Castle in 1992. In 1994 the first mounted tournaments were organized, but at that time they were mainly for a show and only Mounted Skill at Arms contests. Twenty years ago, no one thought of doing jousting, as historical re-enactment was just starting in Poland. In 2007 the first jousting tournament was held, and since then it has grown bigger with higher equipment standards. This year it was the 23rd edition of the event, and the second tournament affiliated with WJT.

Steve Mallet jousts Jeffrey Hedgecock at Zamek Gniew 2014(photo by StudioA)

What makes Zamek Gniew a good location for a jousting tournament?

First of all, Zamek Gniew is a real castle, so it is always better to joust on a historical site. Secondly, it is an ideal place to organize an international tournament as it has everything on site: a four star hotel where competitors stay, a restaurant where they are fed, a hotel for all the ground and stable crew, a permanent tilt yard with recently covered stands for the public, permanent stables, armoury for the competitors and a fully equipped party hall to have fun in the evenings.

The tiltyard at Zamek Gniew(photo by StudioA)

Who is allowed/invited to watch the tournament?

The tournament is open for the public, so anyone can come. On Fridays we usually hold training sessions, and they are free to watch. Saturday and Sunday are ticketed, but the prices are not very high, and as far as I know, residents of Gniew have a discount. There was a limited advertising this year, but we had around 2500-2800 spectators.

How did you become involved with organizing this year's tournament?

I was active around the Tournament since 2008 or 2009. Having traveled with Jarek Struczynski to various international events, we saw many things that we could change and include in our tournament. The first tournaments were more in the sport format with competitors in equipment from different periods (i.e. 14th century jousting with 15th century). Having participated in the Tournament of the Phoenix 2011, I came to an idea of organizing a strictly 15th century tournament in a similar format, where competitors have to participate in many contests to get the final prize. I shared that idea with Jarek, who approved it. I divided the work with Jarek. He and his team organized everything on site, preparing the premises, and I must admit they did an enormous job. My part was to organize and arrange everything with the competitors and ground crew.

In 2013, we organized the first tournament affiliated with WorldJoust Tournaments(WJT) and the International Jousting League(IJL) which involved 12 competitors! Unfortunately the weather was terrible, and not everything went smoothly. This year our second WJT tournament was moved in time to the end of June. The weather was perfect, and we were able to run all the contests.

Adam Firyn of Team Poland at Zamek Gniew 2014(photo by StudioA)

How was the tournament organized this year?

This year we ran a team tournament with four international teams:  England with Steve Mallett and Sean George, Norway with Petter Ellingsen and Per Estein Prois-Rohjell, Burgundy with Wouter Nicolai and Jeff Hedgecock, and last but not least, Poland with Michał Ruda and Adam Firyn.

First we held a Mounted Skill at Arms(MSA) competition. This was just for the MSA prize and the scores were not counted towards the team score. The MSA was won by Steve Mallett from team England.

For the Team prize, we were to count scores from Jousting (overall 6 sessions), mounted melee and crossbow. However, because the competitors did not have a chance to practice the crossbow before the contest, in the end we made it an individual competition that did not count towards the overall score.

As for jousting, we had each of the teams jousting with all the other teams. In each session, one team was jousting with another, and each competitor was to make 3 passes with each competitor from the other team. The scores were counted depending on the area hit (shield, armour), and breakage (attaint, full break). The Lady of Honour and the other Ladies could add 1 or 2 extra points to a total score of a team or individual if they liked his riding, behavior etc...

Lady of Honour Viktoriya Borisova wraps a token around the lance of Michel Ruda
(photo by Marta Kitta)

The mounted melee was watched by the Marshall, Knight of Mercy and Court of Ladies, and scores were applied under their opinion. In the end, all scores were put together, and England became the Team winner, Petter Ellingsen earned the Individual title, and Michał Ruda won the crossbow competition.

What can you tell me about the horses that were ridden in the tournament?

All the horses this year were provided by the Castle crew and Krystian Mróz, who was the Stable Master. They were various breeds, from Trakehner, Silesian, Polish Halfbred, and Shire cross breeds.

What were some of the most exciting/interesting moments during the tournament?

There were a lot of good, and strong hits. Quite a few lances broke in their solid parts. I must say that I cannot choose one exciting moment, as I’m very happy with the event as a whole.

Sean George breaks the base of his lance against Wouter Nicolai(photo by StudioA)

Did anything exciting/interesting happen before or after the tournament?

On Thursday prior the event, we had a nice party during the day with a few drinks and laughs, and then Jarek Struczynski ordered us to mount up. Steve Mallett, Jeff Hedgecock, Sean George, as well as the Gniew team and I were dressed in 17th century Polish costumes, and we went for a ride onto the fields and forests on the banks of the Vistula River. Everything began calmly, and then Jarek ordered a flat out gallop. I hope this will be well remembered.

On Friday we had an excursion to Marienburg Castle – the capital of the Teutonic Order, which in my opinion is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

We also held a bareback melee, where we rode just in pants with no saddles, and were fighting with softer maces, and grappling was allowed. It did hurt a bit, but it was fun!

Luc Petillot(left) and Jan Gradon(right) compete in the bareback melee
(photo by Martin Hagen Johnsen)

After the Tournament, we also had a Mass with a Gregorian choir in the Castle’s chapel.

What can you tell me about the night jousting that took place by torchlight this year?

Jan Gradon, Luc Petillot and Adam Ałaszewski await the beginning of the Tournament of the Golden Rose(photo by StudioA)

It was not a part of the competition. We organize it annually as the Tournament of the Golden Rose. There is a local legend about a Golden Rose and its Protector. In the tournament, knights joust to get the Golden Rose, and the winner has to duel the Protector. This year we had Luc Petillot (Knight of Mercy during the day competition), Adam Ałaszewski from Gniew, and me as the knights, and Jarek Struczynski as the Protector of Golden Rose. It was a show, but the jousting was real. All done with bonfires, torches and nice music. I was very happy to do it, as I could try my new armour before this season (btw, huge thanks to Pelle for letting me use his helmet).

Adam Alaszewski and Jan Gradon joust during the Tournament of the Golden Rose
(photo by StudioA)

What is unique about the Tournament of King John III?

As I said to the Competitors during the briefing on Friday evening, the Tournament is mainly a social event, where people from different countries and cultures can meet, talk, have fun and break some lances. Jousting is a crucial part of the event, but it is very important to have fun. We definitely had fun… especially on Saturday night!

How does the tournament vary each year? What are some of the ways the tournament was organized in previous years?

We change the format annually. In the past it was mostly a foot combat. Then when the jousting started, we change from individual, to team, change the rules, etc..., but the spirit stays the same.

What would you like to say about/to this year's participants?

This year we had some Competitors that participated in the past (Jeff, Steve, Petter, Michal and Adam), and two new ones – Sean and Pelle.

Per Estein Prois Rohjell(aka Pelle) and Sean George exchange blows in the mounted melee 
during their first competition at Gniew Castle(photo by StudioA)

The crew was Viktoriya Borisova as the Lady of Honour; Luc Petillot as Knight of Mercy; Jarek Struczynski as Field Coordinator; Stanislaw Szmit as the Herald; Krystian Mróz as Stable/Horse Master; Jakub Grybek, Leszek Struczyński, Darek Ostaszewski, Paweł Piotrowski as scoring judges; squires from Chełmno and Gniew; and me as the Marshal.

Jan Gradon(mounted) with other members of the ground crew for the tournament
(photo by StudioA)

What are your hopes/plans for future tournaments at Zamek Gniew?

We will talk about it after this season ends. Next is Arundel International Tournament, where Jarek Struczynski and I will joust as team Kingdom of Poland! Wish us luck!

Best of luck at Arundel and in all your future jousts!

Jan Gradon, holding his Marshal's baton watches the joust at Zamek Gniew intently
(photo by Klaudia Rulinska)

Related articles:
Jarek Struczynski Wins the "Tournament of the Phoenix 2013"

Arundel Castle International Jousting Tournament 2013

An Interview with Jouster Mark Caple, Champion of the "Queen's Jubilee Horn Tournament 2014"

Team England and Petter Ellingsen Win the Tournament of King John III

Text is from the Facebook page for The Tournament of King John III. Pictures are from several generous photographers.

The 23rd Tournament of King John III at Gniew Castle is now officially over!

The competition was on really high level with many strong hits. Thanks to a perfect weather we were able to run all competitions. We ran 6 jousting sessions, crossbow tournament, mounted skill at arms and a mounted melee.

Team England with Sean George and Steve Mallet became the Champion Team!

Left: Sean George (photo by Marta Kitta) Right: Steve Mallet (photo by KlaudiaRulinska)

The highest individual score and the individual prize was won by Petter Ellingsen from Team Norway. He also received first place in the mounted melee.

Petter Ellingsen during the mounted melee(photo by StudioA)

The crossbow contest was won by Michał Ruda from Team Poland.

Michał Ruda of Team Poland during the crossbow competition(photo by Martin Hagen Johnsen)

The Mounted Skill at Arms contest was won by Steve Mallett from Team England.

Steve Mallet competes in the mounted skill at arms(photo by StudioA)

The final scoring is:

Teams:
1. England: 131pts
2. Poland: 122pts
3. Norway: 120pts
4. Burgundy: 94pts

Individual:
1. Petter Ellingsen: 78pts
2. Sean George: 68pts
3. Adam Firyn: 66pts
4. Steve Mallett: 63pts
5. Michał Ruda: 56pts
6. Jeffrey Hedgecock: 52pts
7. Per Estein Prois - Rohjell and Wouter Nicolai: 42pts

The final scores of the Tournament of King John III 2014(photo by Petter Ellingsen)

After the closing ceremony a bareback melee was organized with Michał Ruda, Adam Firyn, Luc Petillot, Jan Gradoń, Dariusz Ostaszewski and Krystian Mróz fighting just in hose on bareback horses using clubs and grapling. The winner of that competition was Michał Ruda.

Michał Ruda during the bareback melee(photo by StudioA)

We would like to thank all the Competitors, Lady of Honour, Marshall, Herald, Ladies, Scoring Judges, Ground Crew, Grooms and last but not least all the Gniew Castle Crew for this wonderful Tournament!

The participants of the Tournament of King John III 2014(photo by StudioA)

Related articles:
Petter Ellingsen: Jouster at "The Grand Tournament in Sankt Wendel"

Esprit de Corps Dominates at the "Tournament of the Phoenix 2012"

Guest Writer, Jouster Marc Hamel: Acts of Valor

Esprit de Corps Dominates at the "Tournament of the Phoenix 2012"

Written and pictures provided by WorldJoust Tournaments:

Esprit de Corps dominates at the Tournament of the Phoenix 2012

The gem cannot be polished without friction nor man without trials.
~Confucius

It is said that a glass is either half full or half empty, depending on one’s perspective. It is also said that every cloud has a silver lining, and every rose has thorns. Since the beginning event that gave it its name, every Tournament of the Phoenix has a theme, and this year it was optimism, hope and fortitude.

The Tournament of the Phoenix had been plagued by various issues in 2009, 10 and 11. ‘I decided at the end of 2011 that 2012 was going to be a great year,’ says event producer Gwen Nowrick, ‘and I kept that idea in the front of my mind no matter what happened.’

The producers spent a year working diligently to plan and prepare for the event. ‘Everything was in place, and we headed into the last 8 week stretch confident in our groundwork.’

Then, things started to come undone. Problems started cropping up with everything from staff and schedules to vehicles to transportation. Undaunted, Nowrick remained positive. ‘I faced each new challenge positively, and began moving people around like Tetris blocks’ laughs Nowrick ‘I guess this was the Universe’s way to saying we all were ready for a change.’

The changes also brought a few newcomers to the event. ‘When our Marshal couldn’t make it, I threw Mike Loades’ name on the table. Mike has been a huge supporter of our efforts with the tournament, so I thought we had nothing to lose by asking him.’ To the producer’s delight, Mike accepted with enthusiasm.

Internationally known author, director, and military expert Mike Loades was the Marshal of the Field at the Tournament of the Phoenix 2012. (Photo by Bob Naegele)

Opening day Friday dawned clear and warm, nearly perfect in every way. Nowrick relates ‘From the first moments the gate was open, it was clear to me that despite adversity, this was going to be a stellar year. The spirit of cooperation and good humour from everyone on site was infectious.’

The initial session of the new Skill at Arms competition went off without a hitch, thrilling the 1,000+ school kids and families on site. In a departure from previous years, competitors were not the knights competing in the tournament, but rather grooms, valets, and other support staff. ‘Most of the staff train for these activities anyway, which makes them so good at their various jobs’ explains Nowrick ‘it was a logical step to give them their own competition so they had a chance to shine, and good fun for the audience as well.’

Stable Master Erin Hill scores full points by carrying the helmet in the Helm Strike event.
(Photo by Amanda Mielke)

The jousting was nearly bang on from the first course. ‘Steve Mallett’s advance work with the horses really showed in their performance, and they were up to speed almost immediately. Some of the competitors took a little longer to get into the groove’ she says jokingly.

Saturday dawned picture perfect as only an autumn day in San Diego can. Crowds lined the rails to cheer on the skill at arms competitors competing in hunting games. Everything was going very well until Head of Ground crew Joel Hill took a spectacular spill in the Drag Target event. Proving that judges can have a sense of humour, Joel was given bonus points for his dismount!

Saturday’s first joust went by the book. The crowds welcomed Jeff Hedgecock with chants of ‘U-S-A! U-S-A!’, and Steve Mallett with ‘Ham-mer - Ham-mer!! The 18 courses were run like clockwork, with many fine strikes and hard hits that had the crowd on their feet cheering and whistling. At the end of the first scored event, Jeff Hedgecock took the lead with a score of 19 points.

Sean George(L) and Steve Mallett(R) create a shower of splinters during a pass while Scoring Judges JP Clamme(R) and Darth Rimmer(L) watch closely.
(Photo by Bob Naegele)

The next scored event was the pollaxe competition. There were many fine fights and impressive displays of martial prowess, as competitors battled round after round in the unaccustomed heat. When it was clear that competitor Toby Capwell was flagging, opponent Marc Hamel yielded the field.

Marc Hamel attempts to yield the field to Toby Capwell. (Photo by Leslie Chappell-Britt)

Although acknowledged as a fine display of chivalry, fierce competitor Toby refused the concession and fought the last point. The bouts continued until competitor Marc Hamel was struck below the eye with a pollaxe. The crowd stood in hushed silence as Marc knelt in the arena clutching his face. The on-site medic ran to his aid, and a sigh of relief swept thru the crowd when it was announced that although the injury was severe, Marc ‘s eye was all right. The battles continued, with Steve Mallett emerging victorious with 4 points.

The second session of jousting saw Jeffrey and Toby jousting for Marc Hamel when the medic recommended Marc not compete any more that day. Jeffrey and Toby ran fine courses, earning a very respectable 13 points for Marc. The session closed with Jeff Hedgecock in first place with 17 points.

Toby Capwell jousts for Marc Hamel wearing Marc’s shield.
(Photo by Leslie Chappell Britt)

At the end of the first day of competition Jeffrey Hedgecock was in front with 38 points, Steve Mallett in second with 32 points, and Marc Hamel in third with 30 points.

Sunday was another gorgeous day, and the crowd was ready. The final day of the skill at arms competition were the martial games of quintain, helmet strike and cut/thrust, which was won by Scoring Judge Darth Rimmer.

Scoring Judge Darth Rimmer display great accuracy as he rides hard in the cut and thrust event. (Photo by Javier Camacho)

Sunday morning, Steve Mallett was overcome by the heat while working with a troublesome horse, and withdrew from the session. Jeff stepped up and jousted for Steve, earning Steve 17 points. Again, competitors landed many hard hits and scored many breaks that sent lance shards and coronels flying high into the air, much to the delight of the enthusiastic crowd. Competitor Sean George found his groove, and scored 19 points to win the session.

The 5th event of the tournament was the Club Tourney. The Lady of Honour exercised her rights and judged that due to his injury Marc Hamel should not compete in this grueling event. She appointed Marc Knight of Mercy; in this role Marc would be sent in to ‘rescue’ any competitor who was overcome, or whose horse appeared to be struggling. Darth Rimmer asked for the honour of competing in the club tourney for Marc. The Lady Judges agreed, and Darth rode for Marc.

Toby Capwell in hot pursuit of Darth Rimmer during the club tourney. Darth is riding for the injured Marc Hamel. (Photo by Bob Naegele)

Marshal of the Field Mike Loades recounts the Club tourney- ‘the mounted club tourney was absolutely thrilling, with the whole pack of riders constantly swarming from one end of the field to the other at a fast canter, belabouring each other with solid blows as they did so. There was great tactical play as the action swirled with unrelenting intent. All became exhausted at about the same time.‘ This event has no quantifiable method of scoring such as blows struck; rather, the Lady Judges rank the competitors according to their horsemanship, horse management, tactical ability and courage. Steve Mallet emerged victorious and was awarded 12 points. Jeff Hedgecock and Toby Capwell tied for second and were given 9 points each.

The competitors entered the last scored event with Steve Mallett in first place with 61 points, Jeff Hedgecock in second with 57 points, and Toby Capwell in third with 50 points. Sean George, Marc Hamel and Luc Petillot trailed with 49, 44 and 35 points respectively.

Once again, the jousters were met with cheers and whistles as they entered the tiltyard as the crowd supported their favorites. The competitors rose to the challenge, scoring the hardest hits and biggest breaks of the event. The crowd went wild as Toby Capwell and his horse Lucas flew into the tilt at a flat out gallop, delivering punishing hits and massive breaks. Luc Petillot was the high scorer of the session, breaking lances with clock like precision. All competitors were in high form, and enthusiastic shouts of
‘Woo hoo!’ could often be heard from inside helmets as competitors streaked down the tilt.

Luc Petillot(L) lands a big hit on Toby Capwell(R) during the final. (Photo by Amanda Mielke)

When the final score was announced, Steve Mallet was the winner, with Jeff Hedgecock one point behind in second place. Having fallen quite hard in practice on Thursday, and then riding 3 different horses on Sunday, for a total of 4 horses over the 3 days of the event, Steve felt Jeff had fought hard and performed well, so asked Marshal Mike Loades and Lady of Honour Kyle to declare it a draw between [Steve] and Jeff. The Judges agreed, and the competition was declared to have 2 winners.

Steve congratulates Jeff and Toby acknowledges the cheers of the crowd as the results are announced. (Photo by Janice Kall)

Tobias Capwell was awarded the Chivalry prize by the Lady Judges, much to his surprise and delight. David Young of Turlock California won the Skill at Arms with 20 points

Producer Gwen Nowrick sums up the event- ‘The term 'esprit de corps' came to my mind time and time again during the course of this event as competitors stepped up for their comrades who could not. Jeff and Toby jousted for Marc when he had been injured. Darth volunteered to ride for Marc in the club tourney, and Jeff jousted for Steve. Like mountain climbers who wouldn’t leave a man behind, the guys pulled each other along to reach the end of the event. I can't even begin to explain how proud I was of every single person who worked together tirelessly, selflessly and without fanfare to make this event happen. It was the most humbling experience of my life, and is a feeling I will always cherish.’

Group shot of the competitors L-R: Steve Mallett - England, Tobias Capwell - England/USA, Jeffrey Hedgecock - USA, Sean George - England, Marcus Hamel - Canada, Luc Petillot - France.
(Photo by Amanda Mielke)

Guest Writer, Jouster Marc Hamel: Acts of Valor

A veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, Marc Hamel began jousting in 2006 at a local tournament in Quebec Canada. In 2009, he began jousting internationally at the Hackaland tournament in Belgium and has since jousted in France, Italy, England and the USA. Marc recently competed in  "The Tournament of the Phoenix 2012" which took place in southern California, USA. He has graciously allowed "The Jousting Life" to post his comments about "The Tournament of the Phoenix".

Acts of Valor
by
Marc Hamel

Most of the time, jousting is a sport with the goal of becoming the best there is in a tournament. But on rare occasions like in "The Tournament of the Phoenix", the competition can turn in to something greater than just scoring points.

During the first day after the first session of joust, I got myself injured in the poleaxe duels and found myself unable to joust for the second session. To make sure that I was not left behind on the scoring, Jeffrey Hedgecock and Toby Capwell took it upon themselves to make all the runs that I was suppose to do. Toby went even further by wearing my shield and broke more lances for me than he did for himself.

The next day, Jeffrey scored points for Steve "The Hammer" Mallet who had no horse for one session, and by doing that Jeffrey provided the victory to "The Hammer" by 1 point over himself. Steve, unsatisfied with the final score, called a draw to put Jeffrey and himself both at the first place.

I have the privilege to joust all over the world, but my privilege is greater when I am the witness of such good quality of men and tournament and it keeps me going that kind of path.

Marc Hamel jousts Steve Mallett at "The Tournament of the Phonix 2012"
(photo by Bob Naegele)