Grand time at Medieval Fair

Alycia Douglass

MORRISBURG, Ontario – Minstrels, maidens, and noble kinsmen walked the grounds of Upper Canada Village as the Medieval Fair kicked off this weekend.

With live combat and jousting demonstrations, there was certainly no shortage of action at this year’s event.

 

While jousting is notoriously the most dangerous of the medieval martial games, Alex Rosenthal-Rashi says that Medieval Combat isn’t exactly a picnic, either.

“For most people, it’s not a thing they would or could do,” said Rosenthal-Rashi. “People look at us with a mix of awe and ‘you ’re crazy.’”

Known as European Medieval Martial Arts, this style of fighting kicks it up a level from your typical MMA fight. With fighters decked out in full armour, rounds typically last between 30 seconds to a minute.

Having been involved in sword fighting for roughly 15 years, as well as having a background in MMA, the sport was a natural fit for Rosenthal-Rashi.

“I always wanted a little bit more punch,” said Rosenthal-Rashi. “And when I found out I could do this, I was thrilled.”

Also performing during the weekend’s festivities was event veteran, Cobbler Jay, who dazzled audiences with his endless supply of tricks.

Having got his start juggling at the age of 17, he has since refined his craft, focusing on the finer things like balancing sharp objects while sometimes eating apples.

“I’ve been doing this event for at least 10 years now,” he said. “With Medieval and Renaissance events, the cast are kind of like a big family, and it’s always like a reunion when the festival starts.”

Share this article