Workshops and Lectures

Queen's Gambit is proud to host in-depth workshops and lectures taught by nationally recognized instructors on a variety of topics.

2024 Lineup:
 

"The Circles of Meyer" workshop with Keith Cotter-Reilly of Atlanta Historical Fencing Academy, Atlanta GA
The stereotype of Meyer longsword is flourishing with large circles and big motions for no other reason than it looks "cool." Meyer also would likely not have approved of these, either! This workshop goes over where Meyer used circle-like actions, how to use them, and when to use them. Hint: Not 5 feet away from your opponent. Gear requirements - Fencing mask, gloves, longsword.
 

"Lecküchner Between the Lines" lecture with Owen Sykes of Swordwind, Charlotte NC

Who was Johannes Lecküchner?  He was a writer, fencer, and clergyman who wrote perhaps the most extensive work on Messer fencing. This lecture will examine his writing and the context of his surroundings to try and paint a picture of the man behind the source. If you've ever wondered about the mad lad behind some of the craziest plays in the HEMA sources, this is for you!
 

"For Shifts and Giggles" workshop with Derek Steel-Baron of The 1595 Club, Seattle WA 

An exploration of footwork in fencing (as opposed to "leg"-work). How The 1595. Club suggests we apply that most cryptic of statements from our dear Saviolo's book His Practise: "...that in the stirring of a foote he (meaning one) may be soddenlye overtaken and slaine...". 
We will discuss the value of foot-work in "tempo", how these interact with movements of the body and hand to make more efficient fencing actions, and how we can apply these efficiencies to our fencing.

A single handed cut and thrust sword of "military" weight (around 1Kg) is preferred, but in actuality any weapon can be used (though single handed weapons make for better training partners).

Fencing masks, at least light jackets, and gloves requested.
 

"Book History Through The Lens of Joachim Meyer" with Michael Chidester of Wiktenauer and HEMA Bookshelf

There is much more to a book than just the words printed on its pages. Why and how was it made? Who bought it and what did they do with it? Who read it and what did they think of it? And did anyone in the 16th and 17th centuries actually use the fencing treatises to learn about fencing? In 2019, Sarah Barsness and I set out to examine these and other questions by creating a definitive catalog of the surviving copies of the treatise of Joachim Meyer. This lecture will discuss my preliminary findings from personally examining four copies of the 1570 edition, five copies of the 1600, and what we've learned from assembling descriptions of most of the 70 other known copies (based on studying scans or sending other researchers to examine them in person).

"Lessons of the Shield Wall" workshop with Michael Tucker of Tuathair Academy of Martial Arts, Indianapolis IN
i.33 is not the only means of using a shield while sparring. Let's take a look at the bucklers big brother, its context, and what we can learn from it, all the while discovering techniques that can enhance your understanding of the best side arm.
 

"Stick it To 'Em" workshop with Jessie Allen Harrigan of Swordwind, Charlotte NC
An introduction to the body mechanics and techniques of the two handed stick, with a focus on application to longsword and overall combat training.

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​You will need a mask, gloves, and a roughly chest-height staff for this workshop! Some loaners will be available, but if you have one, please bring it!

We are hosting nine tournaments this year.

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Cutting Obstacle Course.  We're doing things differently this year due to nationwide issues regarding insurance and sharp swords. This course will feature BLUNT swords. In this Obstable Course fencers will face several obstacles in 3 different phases - first with the Spear, next with the sword, and lastly with the dagger. This course can be completed with either a Longsword feder or a Sidesword feder (must meet the specifications listed in our sparring ruleset)
The Obstacle Course will be available Friday 11:00am - 10:00pm and Saturday 8:00am - 7:00pm. We will announce the winners at the Saturday night Dinner. Video of the course will be available one month before the event so fencers will be able to practice the patterns and be prepared for the obstacles.

Sidesword with Mixed Companion Weapons - Rose Division.  A sparring tournament for fencers under 5'10"using sideswords accompanied by bucklers, daggers, or cloaks.  Fencers are required to provide their own steel weapons and companion weapons.

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Sidesword with Mixed Companion Weapons - Crown Division.  A sparring tournament for fencers 5'10" and above using sideswords accompanied by bucklers, daggers, or cloaks.  Fencers are required to provide their own steel weapons and companion weapons.

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Longsword - Rose Division.  A sparring tournament for fencers under 5'10" using longswords accompanied by daggers.  Fencers are required to provide their own steel weapons and companion weapons.

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Longsword - Crown Division.  A sparring tournament for fencers 5'10" and above using longswords accompanied by daggers.  Fencers are required to provide their own steel weapons and companion weapons.

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Dagger Duels - Rose Division. Returning for 2023, this Saturday morning sparring event will focus on dueling with the dagger in the cut-and-thrust style of the Bolognese tradition. Weapons will be provided. Rose division is for fencers under 5'10"

Dagger Duels - Crown Division. Returning for 2023, this Saturday morning sparring event will focus on dueling with the dagger in the cut-and-thrust style of the Bolognese tradition. Weapons will be provided. Crown division is for fencers 5'10" and above

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Spear.  A sparring tournament using partisans.  Weapons will be provided. 

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Swordwind reserves the right to remove any entrants from participating in any tournament at their discretion. This decision may be based on factors such as violation of rules, unsportsmanlike conduct, or any other behavior deemed inappropriate by the organizers. Organizers may take into account behaviors shown at any event, club activity, or that we are otherwise made aware of that would cause safety concerns for either the fencer or others. 

The organizer's decision in this matter is final and not subject to appeal. 

Each case will be re-examined and discussed on a yearly basis. We believe in growth and second chances! 

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Queen's Gambit 2024 will be held at:
Sports Connection Northlake,
8626 Hankins Rd, Charlotte, NC 28269

Recommended hotels nearby include:
Fairfield Inn Charlotte Northlake
9230 Harris Corners Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28269

Courtyard by Marriott Charlotte Northlake
9110 Harris Corners Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28269

Tournament Rules

You can view our 2024 ruleset here

New for this year, we have a Code of Conduct. You can view that here

These rules are subject to change until July 1, 2024. Please follow us on social media or join our Facebook event page to be notified of any updates.