Location: Rus Park, Ukraine

I woke up this morning after sleeping for almost 10 hours- a much needed break for my body before all the shenanigans begin. I showered and dressed in my medieval clothes, my new Peter Pan hat and all. I loved feeling like I fit into the crowd this year and was ready to be a part of the action.

Mack’s Polearm fights started at 10, so we all got ready to watch him from the giant wooden stands. He made it out of his pool after fighting 4 fights and would be fighting again this afternoon. We all rushed from the pole arm fights to gear up in armour for the opening ceremonies. I had a bit of an emotional moment when the team helped me into my Canadian surcote. I was representing Canada in a sport. There’s a feeling that comes with that that’s hard to describe in words, but it was pretty humbling. Time sort of stopped around me as I adjusted my belt and looked around at my team.

Every single fighter lined up in the list while the prince of Ukraine gave a speech, was a pretty amazing sight to see and be a part of. A crowd had appeared to watch and tons of photographers were snapping away while reporters pulled fighters aside from all countries to ask questions. I quickly got tired though as it was 25 degrees Celsius and we were all breathing hard just standing in our armour. I can’t believe I not only have to wear all that weight but actually move and fight in it tomorrow.

We quickly rushed back to camp to grab weapons, as the 5v5’s started right after opening ceremonies. Geared up and ready to go I grabbed the flag and extra weapons for the guys. They won their first fight against China, and then lost against Ukraine. Richard had his ‘off button’ pushed, as in he actually got hit so hard by a Ukrainian that he passed out. Fingers crossed he’s ok by tomorrow and can fight in the longsword pool- if not then Lake may have to take his place.

We fought and lost against England, which means we didn’t make it out of our pool but the guys weren’t too upset, since it’s so hot and they’re now really excited to just support the duelists and watch and enjoy the rest of the weekend. Mack almost won his fight against Ireland, but lost out in the third round and is happy to be finished until his pro-fights on Saturday.

We all grabbed grilled Ukrainian chicken for dinner on the edge of the lists while the commentator cheered and yelled in the background. What an atmosphere! It’s even more exciting than I remember! Maybe that’s because I am participating in a different way this year.

I am typing this out from the stands overlooking the list, watching as mass battles rage out in front of me. At least 80 fighters jumped in to have a few quick mass rounds for fun and for show for the crowd. It was surreal to watch all of them just dog pile in the middle! I’ve never seen a fight so big. I’ve been in Ukraine for 4 days and it’s felt like weeks. I’m shocked at how every day feels like 3. So much has happened already and I still have so much more to go.

My turn tomorrow!

S

#yxygirlsgohereandthere