A talented Harrogate athlete is making his mark on the national stage after being selected for British Fencing’s national development programme.
Ripon Grammar pupil Oscar Crellin has been identified with the potential for progressing to senior international level, including World Championships and the Olympic Games.
The 14-year-old Yorkshire champion, from Harrogate, is currently in training for the British Youth Championships which take place at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield from May 2-4.
He said:
“That’s the one everyone wants to do well in. I’m improving every year and enjoying my fencing. I feel well prepared and I’m looking forward to seeing how far I can progress.”
During his selection for the GBR pathway, Oscar impressed with his results, including a seventh-place finish in the Under-14 Men’s Epee at the British Open Championships last year.
He has continued that form into 2026, claiming the Under-14 Men’s Foil title at the Yorkshire Championships and securing overall series titles in both epee and foil in the national Youth Series.
Oscar recently attended his first three-day epee training camp - an intensive coaching programme for fencers who specialise in the epee weapon - in Nottingham over the Easter holidays.
He said:
“The camp was intense, but you learn so much from the experienced coaches and from fencing with more experienced fencers.
“There are also sessions on things like nutrition and talks from current Team GB-winning fencers.”
Selection for the GBR pathway is highly competitive, requiring strong performances in national competitions, a solid disciplinary record, and a clear training plan.
The teenager, who has been fencing since the age of six with Harrogate Fencing Club, was also named the club’s Cadet of the Year last year.
Away from fencing, Oscar has also enjoyed a successful year in football.
He plays for Harrogate Town AFC at youth level and for Pannal Sports Juniors, helping his grassroots side secure a league title after a strong finish to the season.
He was also named Young Player of the Year in his local Super League competition.
In addition, he trains in athletics with Harrogate Harriers, balancing multiple sports alongside his academic studies.
Looking ahead, Oscar hopes to combine education with elite sport.
He said:
“I’d like to go to university, but I also want sport to be part of my future.
“My goals are to maintain a top 15 GB ranking, achieve consistent results in national competitions, improve my technique and ultimately represent Team GB.”
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