What are these lightsaber duels?

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On November 16 and 17, 2024, the Palais des Sports of Saint-Claude took on the air of distant galaxyvery distant. La Prolé Escrime organized an extraordinary event there: an entire weekend dedicated to the Star Wars universe and at sabre laser. Entitled “The Jura Strikes Back”, this meeting mixed competition, show and discovery of a still little-known disciplineall in a festive and friendly atmosphere.

The lightsaber, the new star of fencing

When we think of fencing, we imagine the foil, the epee or even the sabre, these traditional weapons which make the reputation of this sport. But for several years, the lightsaber entered the scene, becoming a discipline in its own right. Inspired by the mythical saga by George Lucas, this sport mixes technicality, choreography and a hint of theatricality, making people dream science fiction enthusiasts like the fencing enthusiasts.

This weekend, Saint-Claude was the epicenter of this new trend. The competitionregional stage of Burgundy-Franche-Comté, served as qualification for the French championships planned for June 2025 in Metz. Under the leadership of the club president, Michaël Lefel, and with a touch of Jedi mischief, Prolé Escrime transformed this sporting event into a real intergalactic spectacle.

Epic choreographies and duels

Saturday afternoon, time for “choreographic battles”. Eight groups followed the performances on the floor of the Palais des Sports, competing d’imagination and precision to impress a jury expert. Whether alone, in a duo or in a group, the competitors had three minutes to tell a story and transport the audience into the world of the Force. The sabers clashed in light ballets who would have nothing to envy of cult scenes from Star Wars.

On Sunday, the atmosphere goes up a notch with a day dedicated to fighting. No less than 250 clashes took place, pitting 45 competitors, men and women, against each other in an intensive tournament. After group stages and eliminations, only the best reached the final, thus winning their ticket to Metz. If the sabres laser light up the eyes of fans, they also require discipline, strategy and enduranceas the spectators present discovered.

Beyond the appearance playful and spectacular, the lightsaber is a real discipline sportive. The precise movements, tactical movements and competitive spirit make it a complete activity, perfect for young people and adults alike. Michaël Lefel, as the perfect ambassador of this innovative sporthopes to attract new followers.

“The idea is to introduce another facet of fencing, more accessible and original, while retaining the educational values ​​of this sport.”

With this weekend, Prolé Escrime proved that fencing could open up to unexpected horizonsmixing traditions and modernity. The event attracted a varied audience, curious to discover this astonishing mix between sport and pop culture.

Guy Monneret (CLP)

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