On 6th February 2023 our friend, coach, former World Junior Champion and Olympian fencer Robert Bruniges sadly passed away. He was fortunate to have spent most of his life involved with fencing, a sport he was passionate about. He won the 1976 World Junior Championships, represented GBR in 3 Olympics (1976, 1980, and 1984), and many other competitions. Since then, as a coach, he has supported, advised and inspired countless athletes.

His partner and fellow fencing coach, Sandra Egginton has set up a fund to benefit fencers in financial need. Rob was an inspirational character within the fencing community. As a coach he provided an endlessly cheerful, supportive and encouraging presence to his pupils. Along with Sandra, he always put his heart and soul into them. Rob's unflinching belief in the younger fencers he worked with, made them believe with themselves. By treating them with unfailing respect and encouraging their input and ideas he taught them the value of sportsmanship.

It was Rob's dream that every fencer should have an opportunity to reach their goal and potential, just as he did when he was younger. However, the costs to achieve such heights very often create a unsurmountable barrier. It was his wish to set up a fund to help such fencers, to help overcome that first barrier on the start of their international fencing journey.

Since January 2024 we have assisted numerous young fencers and each year we proposed to continue to help those that face this financial barrier to start their international journey. In the autumn of 2025 we will be awarding grants to successful applicants to this funding, however we would like to continue Rob's legacy to help and support the cadets & juniors for future years.

Rob Bruniges Memorial Fund

If you can please donate to this cause.