James Williams

Sport

Fencing

Favourite quote

‘It does not matter what the challenge is, if you have faith in yourself and your own abilities you can do it.’

Biography

I started fencing when I was in the Army in 1982 at the age of 16 and made my international debut in Germany in 1989. I retired from UK representative competition in 2005 after 22 years of elite sport as I wanted to finish at the top of my sport. I now aim to help other young athletes achieve their sporting and life ambitions.

Who was your biggest influence?

In sport, Lesley Whelham, my first Fencing Master, he was my first coach and the person who was instrumental in shaping my future by instilling in me the desire to be the best. He was a World War 2 veteran and ex Sergeant Major in the Army Physical Training Corps. In 1983 when Lesley ‘persuaded me’ to start fencing, he was 63, but still supremely fit, enthusiastic and in my eyes the epitome of real sporting champion.

What is your proudest moment?

Beating Zolt Nemciek Hungarian gold medal favourite in the Sydney Olympics easily! And in front of my family and our then Sports Minister Kate Howey, he did not know what hit him!

What is your tip for young people wanting to take part in sport?

Believe in yourself.

What is your favourite food?

Any kind of pasta as it's simple, quick and easy to prepare - even I can do it!

What is the best piece of advice you have been given?

Don’t think about what your opponent will do. Make him do want you want him to do.

Competitive results

• Commonwealth Federation team gold.
• Individual bronze 1998
• French National Team Championships silver 2001, bronze, 2002, silver 2004

Find out how James worked with Lancashire Sport to promote fencing in Morecambe