When a member meets the requirements for the next rank, that member may call a Prize whenever they feel ready. To learn how, please see Scheduling a Prize
Note that there is a requirement for a time period of one year between each rank. It is hoped that this will encourage fencers to become dedicated, regardless of their skill level.
The format of the Prize shall be as follows
Prize Rounds
The Prizor will fight a number of duels, which increase with rank
- The Prize for a Cadet shall be 10 bouts before opening the floor.
- The Prize for a Scholar shall be 20 bouts before opening the floor.
- The Prize for a Free Scholar shall be 30 bouts before opening the floor.
- The Prize for a Provost shall be 40 bouts before opening the floor.
- The Prize for a Dean shall be 50 bouts before opening the floor.
In order to earn the Prize, the Prizor must be victorious in at least one-third of all bouts fought against opponents of the rank being fought for. If the Prizor does not meet this minimum, then they may call a Prize at another event. If the Prizor meets the minimum, then they win the Prize.
Weapon Use
At all ranks, the Prizor must make use during their Prize fights all of the forms in which they have authorized and started a tournament bout, within the last two years. This number of forms must meet (at least) the minimum number of forms required for the Prize from the Secondary Forms List
The Prize may be fought with either Heavy Rapier or Cut and Thrust, provided there are a sufficient number of authorized opponents of the correct rank. If the Prizor is authorized in both Heavy Rapier and Cut and Thrust, they may omit one primary form (either Heavy Rapier or Cut and Thrust). This is because there may not be enough opponents available in the other form, and the armour requirements may not be feasible within the time constraints.
If the Prizor has authorization in out of kingdom epee, they are not required to complete bouts in this form because epee is not performed in kingdom.
Opponents
Only bouts fought against members of the rank being fought for are counted; any other bouts are for exhibition. In order to proceed, the Prize fight requires three members of the desired Prize rank who are authorized and capable of fighting in the Prizor’s style (either heavy rapier or cut and thrust). Exceptions or amendments to this guideline may be made on a case by case basis by the Preceptor or their deputy, in consultation with any members of the Council of Deans and Provosts who are in attendance.
Two common exceptions:
- If there are a number of Prizors fighting for the same Prize at an event and few other opponents of the correct rank, the Praeceptor, at their discretion, may include the other Prizors fencing for the same Prize as opponents.
- In cases where there are not enough opponents of a specified rank to hold a Prize (but the required number of opponents was expected), higher-ranked fencers may be substituted at the discretion of the Preceptor and the Prizor. The Prize will still be fought for the original rank.
Secondary Forms List
- Sword and Dagger/Two Dagger
- Case of Swords
- Rigid Parry
- Non-Rigid Parry
Timed Exhibition Bouts
After the prize rounds, the floor is then opened for a minimum of 15 minutes, maximum of 30 minutes (or longer if time permits) to all comers.
Award of Prize
Members who succeed in winning their Prize shall be invested in court by the ranking Academy official present. If there is no court scheduled, then the member shall be invested in the new rank upon successful completion of the Prize.