Vineyard of Swords is pleased to host our 4th Scholar's Prize and 3rd Master's Challenge this year at Great Western War.
Participants will demonstrate their abilities through 3 challenges which include cutting, technique, and combat. This is an opportunity to showcase technique, knowledge, and martial prowess in an environment that is not limited by a tournament field. You will find all of the details about each event, required feats, and scoring rubrics in the discussion portion of this event.
The Scholar's Prize is open to everyone, except over all winners from previous years. Anyone participating in the Scholar's Prize can elect to compete in the Master's category, however the over all winners from previous years, will be automatically moved up. Participants will be judged by Instructors of the Vineyard.
In the Master's Challenge, participants will only be allowed to use historical forms, and can expect a greater examination of execution. The judges for the Master's Challenge are Combat Laurels & Masters' of Defense who additionally study/teach HEMA/WMA outside of the SCA.
Technique*- participants will be scored on how well they move with sword (not sharp) in a pattern of their choosing. This challenge is similar to Kata, or a flow drill. This can be from a historic manual, or something that is created by the participant based upon historic techniques. Technique will run throughout the day on Thursday & by appointment.
Cutting*- participants will be scored on the delivery of downward and upward cuts with a sharp sword against water bottles. Cutting will take place on Friday. We will be offering instruction on proper cutting throughout the day for people to learn.
Combat** - This year are pleased to offer two combat options. 1. Harnisfechten Deed of Arms. This will be held Friday afternoon at the Company of St. George.
2. Armor as Worn C&T Memorial Tournament. The tournament will be held on Saturday on the battlefield after melees.
Participants only need to participate in one event to receive credit for Combat. Participants must have all required authorizations to participate in combat activities.
Participants do not need to compete in all three challenges. There will be a prize awarded for each of the individual challenges. An over all Scholars' Prize will be awarded to the participant with the best scores and performance from all three challenges.
This is an 18+ activity.
* You do not need to be C&T authorized to participate in the cutting or technique prizes. These are Martial A&S activities, and there are no opponents or combat of any kind.
** We can substitute Equestrian rossfechten for the combat component if it is offered this year.
Also check out other Sports events in Tupman.
