A council worker in Wales isn’t just your average civil servant – Emma Pearn, age 30, is also a world-class jouster. Emma, one of the few women in the sport, is set to make an impressive trek up Pen y Fan in a £7,500 custom-made suit of armour weighing 32kg on Saturday, September 28.
Having been captivated by jousting at a young age, Emma has since dedicated herself to the sport, participating in tournaments across Europe starting from 2021. Learning to ride a horse and obtaining a black belt in Taekwondo by age 16, Emma ventured into jousting at 18 with a re-enactment group in Northamptonshire, mastering the art of weapon control on horseback for sport and warfare.
While jousting may have historical connotations, Emma views it as a modern sport, emphasizing technique over the past. Through her experiences competing in various countries, she has faced injuries but remains undeterred by the risks involved. Emma’s passion for jousting shines through as she prepares to ascend Pen y Fan, representing her love for the sport and her aspiration for its inclusion in future Olympic Games.
Emma’s dedication to jousting is evident not only in her skills but also in her distinctive suit of armour, tailored to her measurements and endurance for the tough climb ahead. As she embarks on this challenging journey, Emma aims to raise awareness for modern jousting, inspire more women to join the sport, and support the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds.
Despite the discomfort of wearing the heavy armour, Emma remains enthusiastic about the upcoming climb, fully aware of the physical toll it will take. Her determination to showcase the sport’s athleticism and grace amidst the rugged terrain of Pen y Fan exemplifies her unwavering commitment to jousting.