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2025 BF HONOURS: ROBIN PATERSON

As nominations for the 2026 BF Honours open, we’re shining a spotlight on last year’s recipients. In this feature, we speak to Robin Paterson, who received a Silver Medal for extraordinary and sustained contribution to the sport of fencing in Elgin and in Scotland as a whole.

Tell us about the work you do to support fencing…

As well as now being a Director of Scottish Fencing, I ran, until this year, the Highland Open Fencing Tournament. This is the most northerly ranked fencing competition in the UK.  Currently, I’m coaching at two schools in my home area of Moray (the most beautiful place in Scotland); Elgin Academy and Gordonstoun.

What is your favourite memory of your time volunteering in fencing?

Out of the blue, I received an email from a young man who I last met and coached over 15 years ago as a teenager. He was very open about how he had always struggled with being neurodiverse and with his mental health issues. He talked about the difference fencing at a club made to his life and his ongoing struggles. His openness meant a lot to me.

What does it mean to receive the 2025 BF Honours award?

I feel very flattered. Fencing has nourished my soul since the age of twelve and there was really no need the award, albeit it was very gratefully received!

What would you say to people considering volunteering in fencing or sport in general?

Fencing is such an unusual sport. Unlike other sports, it isn’t the strongest or the fastest who wins and there are so many dimensions to competing. Equally, for volunteers, there are so many rewarding opportunities from learning to coach, becoming the club welfare officer or simply just helping out at the club. You will enjoy every moment.

ABOUT THE BF HONOURS

BF Honours are awarded to members who have demonstrably upheld the BF values of honesty, respect and excellence, all while making a significant contribution to fencing in the UK. Awards are conferred annually and announced and presented at the AGM by the BF President.

Fencers who have represented GBR either as an individual or as a team member and have achieved a podium place in specific categories will automatically be recommended for an appropriate award.

Nominations for the 2026 BF Honours are open and close on the 29th May 2026. Click here to make your nomination.

The BF Honours are separate from the BF Community Awards.

Click here for more information about the BF Honours, including past recipients.