Make My Dream of European Veteran Fencing Come True

Hello, my name is Tomas Kazik, and I am a passionate fencer in epee category with a lifelong love for this incredible sport. Growing up in the small town of Snina in eastern Slovakia, I was raised in a fencing family. My father was a fencing coach and founder of a small fencing club, and my older brother also inspired me to embrace the sport.

Over the years, I dedicated myself to representing Slovakia in various age categories, from U12 to Senior level. Although I worked hard to reach the top, I was always a substitute for Slovakia's A Team and never had the chance to compete in European or World Championships. However, my love for fencing never wavered, and now, at over 40 years old, I have entered the Veteran Fencing category.

This new chapter has reignited my dream of representing my country on the European stage. My ultimate goal is to compete in the Veteran European Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, in May 2025, as well as participate in at least two other international veteran competitions.

Despite my busy life as a full-time 3 shift worker at Draexlmaier UK Automotive Ltd. and a proud father of two young daughters, I continue to pursue my passion. Balancing work, family, and training is challenging, but fencing remains a vital part of who I am. I currently proudly represent Sutton Coldfield FC in British competitions and KS Snina internationally, yet neither club nor the Slovakian Fencing Federation or companies which I reach has the resources to support my journey abroad.

Over the years, I’ve achieved significant milestones:

- Slovakian U16 Champion

- Multi-medalist in Slovakian Individual and Team Championships

- Best World Junior Ranking: 64th in 2000

- 8-time West Midlands Champion

- Winner of 23 gold, 10 silver, and 8 bronze medals in British competitions over the past 14 years

My current rankings reflect my dedication:

- 63rd out of 606 in British Senior Rankings

British Senior Mens Ranking

- 3rd out of 403 in British Intermediate Rankings

British Intermediate Ranking

- 37th out of 236 in European Veteran Rankings category 40-49 years old

Category 1, 40-49, Men Epee, Ranking

While I manage to cover my local travel expenses within the UK, the costs of traveling to international competitions in countries like Hungary, Spain, Poland, Sweden, Finland, Italy, and Greece are far beyond my family budget.

Veterans Fencing Calendar 2024/25

I am reaching out to the community for help to make this dream a reality. Your generous donations will go towards travel, accommodation, and competition fees, allowing me to proudly represent Slovakia and continue to inspire others through fencing.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for considering supporting my journey. Any contribution, no matter the size, will bring me one step closer to achieving my dream.

Tomas Kazik