Fencer Named Trainee of the Year at FCANZ Awards

A 26-year-old fencer, Mr. Rathgen, has been awarded the Level 3 Trainee of the Year by the Fencing Contractors Association of New Zealand (FCANZ). This accolade highlights his exceptional achievements during the 2024 graduation season of the New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) level 3 national certificate in fencing.

Mr. Rathgen, who works in his family’s business, Rathgen Fencing, initially aspired to be a cabinet-maker. “I wanted to make top-of-the-line furniture that would get passed down to generations,” he explained. His journey led him to Timaru for a year and a half, but after challenges in cabinet-making, he returned to the fenceline.

He believes the skills from his cabinet-making background are beneficial in fencing, particularly the attention to detail. “Skill-wise, there are things that help out with fencing,” he noted. However, he recognized the need to adapt his mindset. “You almost have to stop yourself because there is a big change from cabinet-making, where you are working within a quarter of a millimetre.” His experience has taught him to balance precision with the urgency of erecting fences efficiently.

Embracing Competitive Fencing

Recently, Mr. Rathgen has embraced competitive fencing to measure his skills against the nation’s best. Together with his brother Luke, he founded the Down To The Wire fencing competition at the Ellesmere A&P Show in Leeston last year. Their goal is to increase participation among junior and professional competitors in its second year.

His competitive spirit was put to the test at the Golden Pliers championship during the National Fieldays at Mystery Creek this year. “I got absolutely whooped,” he admitted, reflecting on the experience of competing against top fencers. His new goal is to secure a top-eight finish in future events, motivated by the challenge. “Those guys are pretty fantastic, and it does drive you to get up there again and give it another crack.”

The competitive nature extends to his relationship with his father, David Rathgen, who is also a fencing contractor. “Dad’s competitive as well, but he doesn’t show it as much,” Mr. Rathgen remarked. Despite being over 60, his father remains a formidable presence in the field, often outperforming younger workers thanks to his extensive experience.

Acknowledgment and Future Aspirations

With eight years of full-time fencing experience since leaving school at 16, Mr. Rathgen has put up an impressive amount of fencing, although he struggles to estimate the total distance. His seasoned background likely contributed to his recognition at the FCANZ industry awards, where young competitors are still gaining experience.

Alongside Mr. Rathgen, other finalists included Corbyn Gibbs, who persevered through shoulder surgery, and Hamish Stanger, who juggled academic and competitive requirements. Ultimately, the judges recognized Mr. Rathgen for his commitment to excellence and his willingness to mentor others.

Other award winners included Dan French for the Level 4 Excellence Award, Galen Monks for Emerging Talent, Mike Billinghurst for Industry Contribution, Donna Upton for Women of Influence, and Wayne Newdick, who received a Lifetime Achievement award.

Phil Cornelius, president of FCANZ, emphasized that the awards go beyond technical skill, celebrating the dedication, leadership, and community spirit of each winner and finalist. “Every finalist and winner is making the industry stronger, and it’s a privilege to acknowledge their work,” he stated.