Who is the coach at Hong Kong Fencing Master?

Hong Kong Fencing Master is led by Lau Kwok Kin, the only 2-time Olympian fencing coach in Hong Kong specializing in foil. He led Olympic Gold medalist Cheung Ka Long and the Hong Kong Fencing Team to Gold Medals at the 2023 World University Games, and has coached Harrow International School to 4 consecutive ISSFHK Championship titles.

What makes Hong Kong Fencing Master different from other fencing schools?

We are Hong Kong's only fencing school exclusively serving international school students with all-English instruction. Our 1:5 coach-to-student ratio ensures personalized attention, and we're the only club led by a 2-time Olympian coach. We specialize in developing school fencing teams and have partnerships with leading international schools.

Where are the fencing classes held?

Our main location is at 1/F & 2/F Hong Kong Jewellery Building, 178 Queen's Road Central, Central. We also offer classes in Yau Tong and Lohas Park. All locations are easily accessible by MTR.

What age can children start fencing classes?

We offer Discovery Classes for beginners and Professional Classes for advanced students. Our programs are designed for international school students and above, with classes taught entirely in English by our expert coach team.

How much do fencing classes cost in Hong Kong?

We offer flexible pricing with trial classes available. Contact us at WhatsApp 6900 1070 or email info@hkfencingmaster.com for current class schedules and pricing. We provide both group classes and private lessons to suit different needs and budgets.

Do you offer fencing classes for adults?

Yes, we offer adult fencing classes for all skill levels. Whether you're a complete beginner or returning to the sport, our Olympian coach and professional team provide expert instruction in a supportive environment. It's never too late to learn fencing and stay fit while doing something exciting.

Young Children's Fencing Competition Guide Hong Kong (Ages 3.5–8)

4 days ago

4 min read

Many Hong Kong parents ask the same question once their child starts foil: when should a young fencer compete — and when is it better to wait? This parent guide from Hong Kong Fencing Master is for BB (about 3.5–5), Petite (6–8) and a short note for Musketeer (9–12). It covers first-friendly events, our badge readiness ladder, and what “success” looks like at this age.

Start with skill, not the calendar

Competition is part of fencing training, but medals are not the goal for little ones. At this age we look for curiosity, safe footwork, listening to the referee, and the courage to try again after a touch. That “Beyond the Medal” mindset — participation, learning and fun — is how young fencers stay in the sport for years.

If you are still choosing a class, see our guide How to choose a kids' fencing class in Hong Kong (ages 3.5+).

Age groups we coach

BB — about 3.5 to 5: play-based foundations, often plastic swords at Mini Star, short attention spans, coach-led games.
Petite — 6 to 8: metal foil begins, first proper bout habits, growing independence on the piste.
Musketeer — 9 to 12: longer bouts, school pathways open up; still young enough that readiness beats age alone.

When to start competing — and when to wait

Use badge level as a readiness guide, then confirm with your coach. Our public ladder on the badge exam site and Badge Level Assessments page maps competitions like this:

Master Star (in-house): Mini Star 1 for BB age group · Badge Level 1+ for other ages.
External club / district-style events: Badge Level 2+.
BOC Cup & Kowloon City district competitions: Badge Level 3+.
HKSSF Inter-Primary / Secondary and ISSFHK: Badge Level 4+.
HKFA U14, HK Open & LCSD Open: Badge Level 5 recommended · Badge Level 4 for fencers looking for a challenge.

A child who is under-ready often leaves the venue tired and discouraged. Waiting one term for another badge is usually kinder than forcing an early entry.

First events that suit young children in Hong Kong

Master Star Quarterly Competition is our own in-house series — a friendly first piste for club members (and a Master Kids series for non-members). It runs every quarter; listed 2026 Master Kids dates on our Master Star page include 22 March, 19 June, 26 September and 6 December. Points build a club ranking; the focus for little ones is trying a real bout under coach support.

After Master Star confidence grows, coaches may suggest selected district or age-group events. School pathways come later: HKSSF for local schools and ISSFHK for international schools — both usually need Badge Level 4+ and school entry. Read HKSSF vs ISSFHK Fencing: A Parents' Guide and ISSFHK Fencing Championships 2026-27: A Parent's Guide (U14 & U20) for those routes. Official calendars: HKFA · ISSFHK.

Young fencers practising en garde in a Hong Kong Fencing Master class — BB and Petite classes build posture and confidence long before the first medal.

Parent checklist for competition day

Talk with the coach first — confirm badge level, age group and whether this event is the right step.
Gear: mask, jacket, plastron, glove, fencing socks; for electric events, at least two weapons and two body cords in working order.
Spare clothes, water, simple snacks and a warm layer — competition days run long.
Arrive early for weapon check and warm-up; stay calm in the stands — children hear parents more than we think.
Celebrate effort: a clean salute, a recovered bout, or finishing the pools can matter more than a podium at this age.

What success looks like for BB, Petite and Musketeer

For BB: finishing the session with a smile, remembering en garde, and wanting to come back next week. For Petite: applying a lesson from class in a real bout and accepting the scoreboard without tears lasting the car ride home. For Musketeer (9–12): managing nerves, reading the referee, and starting to own their own warm-up — still with coach guidance, not pressure for results.

Our Head Coach, two-time Olympian Lau Kwok Kin (劉國堅), and the coaching team design Master Star and the badge pathway so competition stays a training tool, not a test of worth.

Frequently asked questions

My 4-year-old wants a medal — should we enter a big open?

Usually no. Start with Master Star at Mini Star 1 readiness, keep sessions short, and praise process over prizes.

Does my child need full electric kit for the first competition?

For Master Star, follow your coach’s kit list for that age group. Electric kit becomes essential as events move beyond in-house foil for beginners.

When do school competitions start?

HKSSF and ISSFHK typically suit Badge Level 4+. Entry is through the school, not parents. See our HKSSF vs ISSFHK and ISSFHK parent guides linked above.

How often should young children compete?

A few well-chosen events a year beat a crowded calendar. Recovery, class attendance and badge progress come first.