Bordermarch Baronial Champion

March 2004

(Including a salutation letter from Their Excellencies)

Upon the grounds in the bailey at the grand mortared castle in Ansteorra, in the presence of Their Regal Majesties Ansteorra, Miguel Sebastian de Oporto and Conal Alexandria O'Riordain, the following emerged as victorious Champions to Their Excellencies Armand and Caitrin of Bordermarch, to stand with Their Excellencies for the coming year:

Chivalric: HE Earl Sir Ulsted, of Loch Soilleir

Rapier: HE Don Modius, of Stargate

Archery: Lord Fredrick, of Rosenfeld

Arts and Science: HLdy Dyan, of Rosenfeld

Youth Rapier: Lady Alexandria Penrose of Greywood, (previously known to us at length as "Shari") who was given her new name by the Crown themselves at court in an AoA.

The weather was unmatched for the fairness of early spring. With some 215 signing in through the gates, there were 26 entrants into the Chivalric list, 21 in the Rapier list, and 4 in Youth Rapier, 7 Artisans, and 5 Target Archers. Archery was well shot in the shadow of the castle towers. Various merchants had a prosperous day. The artisans' art work was breathtaking, especially the embroidered gloves by the victor, Lady Dyan. One paper on Beowolf by Lady Isabella was also praised by Mistress Gwynneth, the outgoing A&S Champion.

Many celebrations occurred. During the morning Rapier List, Lord Joseph, outgoing baronial Youth Rapier Champion, was honored by House Bladesong and friends by having Joseph "announced" onto the field for his first combat list as an adult, although he has been training in rapier for a number of years and has been youth champion.

Throughout the day, seen visiting in reunion with her persona "daughter/cadet" was the one we lovingly refer to as "The Queen Mum,"Dona Leah, smiling, embraced, arm in arm by Queen Conal. Attending Her Excellency Cairtin's noon luncheon were Their Majesties, Countess Cateua, TE Ravens Fort, HE Loch Sollier; Outgoing Champions, Current Bard Don Modius, and Lord Gerald who sang for his supper, along with others.

A beautiful array of foods was prepared by Her Excellency Caitrin, Countess Tessa; and Lady Grace, Lady Therese, and Lady Gabrielle (each of the latter three receiving AoA's in evening court).

There were 16 newcomers to the SCA who were recognized at feast. Most of these helped serve feast and helped with messages and errands for Their Excellencies all through the day. Lord Grenfield received a Sable Falcon upon the field of war pratice. In evening court, Lord Phocas was recognized with an Award or Arms for his dedication the construction/renovation of the castle project and for good public relations. Also recognized with an AoA was someone who had been of lengthy service for years and never had an AoA after his first award had been knighthood in 1977, Count Simonn of Amber Isle.

Further, during evening court, special honor was spoken to commemorate the 25th year anniversary of the creation of the rapier order (March, 1979) established in Atenveldt/Principality days at the hand of then Prince Simonn and Princess Tessa of the Principality of Ansteorra to recognize the first Don, Don Tivar and the forthcoming men and women of his ilk. The rapier community did encircle Tessa and Simonn and Tivar and Aethylian to say, "Thank you" and "Thank you for remaining active all these years." Queen Conal did present Don Tivar a Queen's Rapier braid at the hand of Mistress AEthylian. A reception was held at Moondragon Pavillion after feast for those with interest in the rapier community history and future.

Other celebrations included an actual propoposal of marriage, and acceptance, of House MountainGate's Lord Richard Redscale (name change to Ricciardo) to Blue Moon's Lady Diedra (name change to Carlotta). Their Italian Renaissance wedding is planned for May. Feasters did greatly rejoice with this happy couple! Continuing revelry, consistent singing was nearly uninterrupted between House Blasdsong's table and Master Athelstan's unquestionable presence.

His Majesty Miguel, in His own poetic way, did draw notice to the incomparable beauty of the red setting sun in the west and the rising moon in the eastern night sky over the castle grounds. Further revelry was seen as a large crowd gathered at the outdoor fire pit in the midst of the feast area, at a campsite birthday observance for JED of Bordermarch, and evening entertainment by the Fire Dancers.

In the written words or our Baron and Baroness of Bordermarch, regarding their new champions:

"We stand with them, for they have won our hearts as well. Many thanks to those who ran the lists for us... HE Countess Tessa (Rapier) and HE Baroness Amberlea (Chivalric).

The Scarlet Sisters with House Morning Glory for a Wonderful Job in making sure no warrior fell due to thirst. "Many helped marshal the fields... without them no tournaments could commence.

To those that entered to become champion, you gave with all your heart and honor was upheld. We very much hope to see you again upon the list field. Event Steward, Lady Ophelia la rue, with much help, saw to it that things ran smoothly... they indeed did.

Lord Elrique cooked a nice Italian feast.... and many stepped from their tables to help in serving others without complaint. My thanks to His Grace, Duke Patrick Michael. The chivalric GW practice went very well. Don Robert with Don Ansgar saw to it that our rapier army is also ready for Gulf War 2004, a week hence.

Unto Bordermarch, Know this... A strong barony you are, for you raised the banner of the Sable Star high. Our good King and Queen, thank you for gracing us with your presence. Ansteorra, so close to war... you came and left wonderful memories, for indeed it was a great day.

We remain, Armand and Caitrin, Baron and Baroness of Bordermarch"

Thus concludes the Chronicle of Bordermarch Baronial Championship event of March 6, 2004.

Send mail about this web site to ldgermanicus@hotmail.com with questions or suggestions.

Last modified May 12, 2004