James L. Melcher Epee Grand Prix

In honor of the late Jamie Melcher, the Fencers Club announces the inaugural James L. Melcher Memorial Grand Prix Epee Open to take place on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

Sadly, Jamie passed away on Monday 17 April 2023. He was a lifelong fencer and member of the Fencers Club where he served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for many years. He was national epee champion in 1971 and 1972 and a member of the U.S. national team for the Munich Olympics in 1972. In 2013 he was inducted into the Fencing Hall of Fame.

Jamie’s commitment and generosity to the club knew no bounds. His extraordinary gift was critical to the purchase of our current facility.

We can think of no better way to celebrate the spirit and the impact of this wonderful fellow member of the Fencers Club than by naming an epee event after him.

Jamie’s family is offering the prize money for the first three men's finalists: $250, $150, and $100 respectively for 1st , 2nd , and 3rd place and the winner of the women's event, $250.

Jean-Marc Oppenheim is donating the perpetual cup in his friend’s name.

Please note that the proceeds from this event will be donated to the Fencers Club’s Scholarship Committee.

We hope that you will join us to compete or just to attend and celebrate Jamie Melcher, a talented and dedicated member of the Fencers Club Events Scheduled:

Men's Epee: 11:00AM

Women's Epee: 1:00PM

Entrance Fee: $60 if pre-registered, $75 if walk-in

Format: One round of pools followed by direct elimination. There will be a fence-off for third place.

Registration opens at 10:00AM, fencing will begin at 11:00AM Prizes: Top 3 fencers will win medals. The top three fencers will receive a cash prize at the end of the tournament.

1st: $250

2nd: $150

3rd: $100

If there are less than 8 fencers registered by Friday evening, we cancel the event.

Payment and Refunds:

Payments can be made in cash (preferred), credit card or check on tournament day at the door. Fencers Club does not issue refunds for tournament entry fees. If a fencer cannot attend for a valid reason (illness, etc.).