Forge Pioneer: Historical Fencing, based in Pasig City, made history at the 2024 Clash of Steel, Asia’s top Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) tournament. The club excelled, earning multiple accolades and medals.
Forge Pioneer was named the Best Rapier Fencing Team by HEMA Union, the event’s organizers. Out of nine rapier fighters, six advanced to the quarterfinals, showcasing their efficient training and dedication.
Rafael “Rio” Ortiz led the team, securing a bronze medal in the rapier event. This marked the Philippines’ first medal in a major HEMA tournament. Ortiz’s performance highlighted his dedication and the club’s high level of training.
Rookie fencer Gabriel Andrinor “Badger” Tajonera, 17, won the Best Technical Fighter for Rapier. His rapier techniques impressed the organizers and the audience. Tajonera’s memorable semi-final bout was against his mentor, Rio Ortiz.
In the Longsword event, six out of eight Forge Pioneer fighters advanced to the elimination round, improving on last year’s performance.
Individual Results:
- Rio Ortiz: Bronze medalist for Rapier
- Vier Tajonera: Quarterfinalist for Rapier and Longsword
- Titus Villanueva: Semifinalist for Longsword
- Badger Tajonera: Semifinalist for Rapier, 15th Place for Longsword
- Luis Ortiz: Quarterfinalist for Rapier, 13th Place for Longsword
- Johann Santiago: Quarterfinalist for Rapier
- Jay Cruz: Quarterfinalist for Rapier
- Matthew Franco: 14th Place for Longsword
- RG Cabredo: 20th Place for Longsword
The club’s success is rooted in rigorous training under Blood and Iron Martial Arts Global founders, Lee and Nicole Smith. “The Forge Pioneer Fight Team would not have progressed this fast if it weren’t for the guidance of Lee and Nicole. We are fortunate to have them train our young fighters whom I see will dominate this sport if they continue to train under the Blood and Iron system,” said Forge Pioneer Head Coach Vier Tajonera.
Forge Pioneer’s success at the 2024 Clash of Steel is a milestone for HEMA enthusiasts in the Philippines. Their triumph in Taipei is a beacon of excellence and inspiration for future HEMA practitioners.
READ: Filipina Fencer Samantha Catantan Secures Historic Spot at Paris Olympics and Fencing Champion Maria Leonor Estampador Receives Continental Award for Asia from the International Olympic Committee.
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