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Gary Chelak

LONG BEACH, CA

Gary began studying historical fencing in 1994 while attending college at Northern Arizona University. He served as both assistant and primary historic fencing instructor. A nationally recognized designer, in 2001 he refocused to full time graphic arts instruction at a private college. Since then he has received multiple awards for teaching including “Who’s Who of America’s Teachers.”

Gary founded the Southern California Chapter of TSD, bringing a unique mixture of competitive experience, academic research, and creative pedagogy.

Instruction is available in Italian systems of rapier, sword & longsword, with classes also available in Germanic sword play as well as Italian & Germanic unarmed arts. Gary continues to refine his translation and interpretation of Nicoletto Giganti’s 1606 rapier text, and has also worked on the texts of Camillo Agrippa and Achille Marozzo, including translation & pedagogical study.

Known as Giacomo Cavalli da Treviso in the Society for Creative Anachronism, Gary is a member of the Defenders of the White Scarf, and member of the Laurel for Historic Combat.

Classes & Workshops

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