The HEMA-community gathers in Feldbach

A weekend that made the hearts of Historical Fencing enthusiasts beat faster – Sterzhaw III, a unique event, unfolded in Feldbach, Styria, from October 13th to 15th 2023. Amidst tournaments, inspiring workshops, and culinary delights, participants experienced not only fair, demanding bouts but also the deep connection of a community shaped by their shared passion for historical fencing. We are so very proud to have done it again!

From October 13th to 15th, Sterzhaw took place for the third time in the picturesque town of Feldbach, Styria. With the help of our dedicated referees and tournament-„executive producers“ Gerhild and Julia two exciting competitions were held: an open longsword tournament and a longsword beginners‘ tournament. Again we strayed from the beaten path and used our own Sterzhaw rules which ensured a fair and non-zero sum competition. As usual, we also held a fun competition. Special thanks here to Maximilian Ohmacht for spontaneously organizing this, as the person in charge sadly fell ill.

The Sterzhaw-Tournamnets

We congratulate our winners and want once more give special thanks to all our judges, who did an amzing job! The longsword tournament witnessed bouts among 31 skilled fencers, culminating in an impressive total of 543 exchanges. 16.6% resulted in double hits, with no instances of timeouts. We once again used the Sterzhaw-Tournament mode and rules. It’s worth noting that the immense success of this ruleset has led to its possible integration into the ÖFHF rulesets.

In the beginner tournament, featuring the modular ÖFHF ruleset, 15 enthusiastic fencers showcased their talents. Both tournaments saw a fairly international participants pool.
From its inception, Sterzhaw has been envisioned as a relaxed tournament, providing fencers with the opportunity to test their skills without the pressure of impacting national or international rankings. As organizers, we embrace the freedom to experiment with rulesets that deviate from the ÖFHF standard, a testament to our commitment to fostering an environment where participants can push their boundaries and enjoy the art of fencing.

Workshops, Workshops, Workshops

Parallel to the tournaments, a total of 14 workshops took place on Saturday and the whole Sunday, led by experienced instructors from Germany, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and Austria. Covering topics from sword and buckler to knife, longsword, rapier, and side sword, the workshops offered a wide range of learning opportunities. Participants faced the challenge of choosing between two simultaneous workshops. We are sorry but not sorry and will try to incorporate even more seminars into our 2024 edition of Sterzhaw.

Putting the „Sterz“ in Sterzhaw

Since the Sterzhaw is in it’s core a regional, Styrian event, the program cannot be complete without offering some culinary delights. The traditional Styrian Sterz was freshly prepared on-site. Authentic over open fire by our master-Sterz-chef Wolf Dieter. Additionally, participants could unwind by utilizing the swimming pool and sauna facilities the venue offered.

This year we replaced our usual event-Shirts with specifically designed Sterzhaw III rashguards by 8Openings. Which not only look amazing but keep you dry underneath a fencing jacket.

Heartfelt thanks to generous sponsors 8OPENINGS, Scheucher Kernöl, and KWB, who provided us with the tournament prizes, alongside handmade medals which double as lids for a mug made by Harald. We do love the tiny details!

The moments were professionally captured by the talented photographer Jessica Karkheck. Sterzhaw III left lasting memories of exciting fights, insightful workshops, and the warm community united by the love for historical fencing. We are already looking forward to next year!

If you are interested in giving a seminar or workshop at Sterzhaw, please reach out!

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written by Gerhild Grabitzer

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