Star fencer has sights set on 2020 Olympics
Hadasha Learning Centre's star fencer, Cailyn Duncan says the best way to learn, is through practice.
POLOKWANE – The 16-year-old started her academic journey at Hadasha this year and says it is a unique experience.
“I love it here, it took me a while to get used to attending a smaller school but I really enjoy it,” she explains.
She says because the classes are smaller at Hadasha than those at her previous school, she is able to focus more on her studies which has greatly improved her academic performance. She believes education is very important.
“It is something we all need to focus on because education is the key to success in life,” she explains.
Cailyn aspires to work in the field of forensic science upon completing high school.
“I have always been interested in the human body and I love watching forensic television shows,” she explains.
Cailyn says she intends to study toward a degree in forensic photography or autopsy and wishes to study overseas, in England or Scotland.
Although she is passionate about academics, Cailyn’s first love is fencing. Cailyn is part of the Firebird Fencing Club and recently won one gold, one silver and two bronze medals at the Gauteng 3 Ranking Competition 2016.
Cailyn placed third in the Junior women’s foil and Cadet women’s foil categories; second in the Junior women’s épée and first in the Cadet women’s épée.
She says her love for fencing has intensified thanks to her new coach. She says fencing has improved her hand-eye coordination as well as her reflexes.
“My biggest inspiration is my coach and I can’t thank him enough for what he has done for me,” she says.
Cailyn loves listening to modern and alternative music. She enjoys reading, with action being her favourite genre.
Cailyn is also an avid gamer and regularly plays games on both her XBox and PlayStation. She says her favourite game is Legend of Zelda.
She describes herself as bubbly, unique and at times, quite stubborn. “If something is not going my way, I make it my mission to turn the odds in my favour,” she explains.
Cailyn sees herself representing South Africa at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games.
