MARTINEZ ACADEMY OF ARMS

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REDWOOD RAPIER CAMP

July 19-25, 2009, Arcata, CA

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The Martinez Academy of Arms and the Humboldt State University Fencing Club are proud to announce that the world’s only week long camp for serious students of historical rapier fencing will return July 19-25! As always, this camp will serve as an introduction to the art for those with no previous martial arts experience, but no experienced rapier fencer or martial artist can afford to miss this unique training opportunity.

Maestro Ramon Martinez and Maestro Jeannette Acosta Martinez, assisted by Instructors Jared Kirby and Antone Blair, will teach participants in amongst the Victorian architecture of the little town of Arcata, situated in the redwood forests of Northern California. There will be hands-on training from Monday through Friday, plus lectures and question-and-answer sessions after dinner each evening. The lecture topics will include:

• Fundamental fencing concepts and terminology
• Similarities between the Spanish and Italian schools of rapier and how they differed
• The difference between the Duel, the Street Fight, and the Ambush
• The Renaissance view of self-defense and how it influenced fencing concepts
• How to read an opponent, and fence people of various temperaments
• How to fence against someone practicing another style of fencing

The focus of this camp is to teach all participants fundamental rapier skills in a safe and friendly learning environment. This year the training will center on the different situations in which rapier fencing was applied, as a means to understand why the rapier was used the way it was. The importance of correct training habits will be stressed.

We will once again offer an optional sixth day of instruction in the psychology of combat. This year's curriculum includes revised discussion topics and new lecture material by Instructor Cecil Longino.

Housing

Participants will stay in the Humboldt State University dormitories with fellow participants. Meals are provided by the Humboldt State University cafeteria. Room and board is included in the price of the seminar.

Travel

Humboldt State University is located in the town of Arcata, which lies amid Redwood forests on the Northern coast of California, about 5 hours drive north of San Francisco. The Arcata/Eureka Airport (ACV) offers flights to and from San Francisco and Portland. Bus or taxi service from the Airport to Arcata takes about 15 minutes.

Cost and Deadlines

Please print and mail in our registration form.

The total price for the seminar, including meals, housing, and tuition, is $695 for each person who registers by April 31, and $815 per person for those registering after that date. In order for space in the seminar to be reserved, a minimum deposit of $200 must be included with the application. Full payment is due by June 15, at which time all payments are non-refundable.

Class size is limited, so be sure to register early!

All inquiries should be directed to Antone Blair: sildar1@earthlink.net or (707) 826-0573