Northern Ireland’s fencing community is bracing up for a historic moment as Scott Adair and Thea Leadley prepare to represent the nation at the 2026 Commonwealth Fencing Championships in Lagos, Nigeria.

The tournament, scheduled for August 9 to 14, marks the first time the championships will be staged in West Africa, offering both athletes a unique opportunity to compete on new ground.

The duo will be guided by Maître Mike Westgate, National Coach and Performance Director for Northern Ireland Fencing.

Westgate, one of the most decorated coaches in the UK and Ireland, brings over 50 years of experience, including coaching at the 1980 Moscow Olympics and earning the British Fencing Association Lifetime Achievement Award.

“To have these athletes from the same club competing at this level is a fantastic achievement,” he said. “Thea has shown incredible dedication and rapid progression, while Scott’s return to the sport and successful qualification demonstrates the depth of talent we have. We are looking forward to the challenge in Lagos.”