The Forge revives swordplay
I have never felt stronger, more focused and determined than when I first gripped a long sword. A passion was sparked within from the first time I heard the resounding ring of striking steel.
The Forge is a club that practises and teaches Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). Here, I found a place to be focused and free in the company of honourable, tough-butkind, and — let’s say it, nerdy gentlemen.
“God, I love fighting,” says Jeff Mostowich, out-of-breath, eyes gleaming, as he steps out of a long sword spar.
In the club, you’ll hear the occasional Lord of the Rings reference, talk of the latest Marvel movie, or IT gibberish and lots of jovial laughter.
Stoic Steven (Dalla Vicenza) has the heartiest laugh of the bunch.
The core group that keeps this non-profit organization alive is welcoming and passionate.
“Twice a week, I can train, not think of anything except being the best,” says the club’s Lars Le Gras.
Mark Winkelman and Tim Holter, the founders of the club, are inspiring leaders. With Winkelman “leading the charge,” they broke away from the The Academy of European Swordsmanship roughly three years ago with an idea to “modernize the image of HEMA,” Holter says.
Winkelman is a natural, dedicated and encouraging teacher and incorporates what he learns from his jiu jutsu training into The Forge’s grappling lessons. Holter has been practising martial arts since he was an eight-year-old in Saskatchewan. With certified accomplishments, including a black belt in Muay Thai kick-boxing and Brazilian jujitsu, he demands and rightfully receives respect as a practised combatant. He covers his tough skin in tattoos; his freshest ink a tribute to Star Wars, painted onto his calves by the club’s brash “mad Englishman,” Jimmy Munkaspeni.
At the Forge, it’s not just swordplay. Tuesday nights involve more practical combat training such as boxing and self defence. Gareth Jones is another fundamental flame in The Forge’s fire. He always remind me that, as a woman, I will face different physical attacks than men. So he makes sure I have all the tools in the book to defend myself.
As for HEMA, Calgary’s Forge, already one of few key players in Canada, is a growing faction on the world map. HEMA is an underground martial art bred from historical techniques that has been internationally growing since the early ’90s. Enthusiasts compete in world tournaments across Europe and North America.
All ages can join in the fray. Mostowich’s spry boy Liam, age 13, jumps in with us now and then. And quiet, determined Vanja, also 13, has been a part of the club since its inception. Holter’s daughter Kimberley, 14, brings the fierce punches on Tuesdays.
“The more warrior princesses, the better,” Winkelman says.
The first time I walked into The Forge, Oct. 3, 2015, was during the Anvil Tournament. At first sight The Forge seems like a ragtag boy’s club. But these motley members are making it into an esteemed martial arts facility.
On May 29, I compete in my first steel long sword tournament. Every week, these guys help in my training, so I even stand a fighting chance. The Forge will be at the upcoming Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo, April 28 to May 1, so be sure to swing by and ask some of the gang about swords and watch some demonstrations.