Hi, my name is Ben Willmott, and for the past four years I’ve been working toward one goal — to represent Wales at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Nigeria.

My Journey

I started fencing at 13 years old at a small, friendly club in Hitchin, Hertfordshire. I began in foil and quickly fell in love with the sport.

At 18, I went to university where there was no fencing club, and I had to step away from the sport. After graduating, I moved to South London but couldn’t find an adult club I could afford. Rather than walk away completely, I became a coach at Epsom Fencing Club.

(Im very pleased to say since then it has started a thriving adult section).

At 26, I moved to Wales with my fiancée and picked up fencing again — this time in épée at Celtic Sword Club. It didn’t quite fit so I switched to sabre — and fell back in love with fencing all over again at Cardiff Academy of Fencing.

Since then, I’ve worked my way up to become:

• 4th ranked in Wales

• 29th ranked in the UK

• Represented Great Britain at multiple international competitions across Europe

Now, at 30, I have the opportunity to represent Wales at the Commonwealth Fencing Championships.

Why the Commonwealths Matter

It may not be the Olympics. It’s not the World Championships.

But it is one of the few events where I can represent the country I now call home.

To be selected for your country is one of the highest honours in our sport. By the time the next Championships come around, I’ll be in my mid-thirties — making this likely my only realistic chance to compete at this level for Wales.

This isn’t just another competition. It’s the culmination of years of sacrifice, setbacks, coaching others, rebuilding, and starting again.

The Challenge

The Championships are being held in Nigeria this year.

Travel, visas, insurance, accommodation, and competition fees are expected to total several thousand pounds. Nigeria is also on the UK’s travel advisory list, which increases insurance and logistical costs.

With no sponsorship, and no financial backing. Everything I’ve achieved in this sport has come through hard work and self-funding.

Without support, this opportunity — after four years of relentless work — could slip away.

How You Can Help

Any contribution, no matter the size, helps me get one step closer to representing Wales on the international stage.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would mean just as much.

How the money will be spent

Firstly it will help cover the cost of accommodation, visas and flights.

It will also help cover any new equipment that may be required to safely and fairly compete.

Any left over money will be donated to charities.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for supporting this journey.

— Ben