The European Fencing Confederation (EFC) mourns the passing of Caryl Oliver, President of European Veterans Fencing (EVF), whose leadership, dedication and passion made a lasting contribution to the development of veterans fencing across Europe.
Under her presidency, the EVF strengthened its international competition circuit and further developed the European Veterans Championships, creating valuable opportunities for generations of fencers.
A Tribute from EFC President Pascal Tesch
In an official letter dated 27 October 2026, EFC President Pascal Tesch paid tribute to Caryl Oliver, remembering both her professional achievements and her remarkable personal courage:
Dear members of the fencing community,
It is with great sadness that we pay tribute to Caryl Oliver, a remarkable leader and a passionate ambassador for European fencing.
As President of European Veterans Fencing (EVF), Caryl was a driving force behind the development of veterans fencing across Europe. Her leadership helped build a fantastic circuit of veteran competitions and an increasingly successful European Championships, leaving the organisation in a much stronger position.
I will particularly remember our meeting in Cognac during the European Championships, where, already affected by her illness, Caryl was nevertheless present, fighting both her illness and for fencing. Her courage, determination and unwavering commitment to our sport were deeply moving.
During that meeting, we discussed how to strengthen the friendship and partnership between the EFC and EVF, bringing us closer together through our shared passion for fencing and our common commitment to its development across Europe.
Her knowledge and experience are irreplaceable, and her absence will be deeply felt. However, her legacy will continue to inspire us.
The EFC stands ready to support the EVF and all efforts to further develop veterans fencing across Europe. Together, we will honour Caryl's legacy and continue the work to which she dedicated so much of her life.
On behalf of the European Fencing Confederation, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, her friends and the entire veterans fencing community.
Thank you, Caryl, for your dedication, your courage and everything you have done for our sport. You will not be forgotten.
Pascal Tesch — President of the European Fencing Confederation
Luxembourg, 27 October 2026
