David and Patti Howes
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By Cindy Robinson
David Howes, BAHons/87, and his wife Patti (née O’Flaherty), BA/87, got much more than an education when they attended Carleton. The university is where the couple met as competitive fencers, and it’s where they became passionate about the sport that continues to be a major part of their lives.
"I’m amazed that we started as new fencers at age 19 at Carleton and are still involved in the sport today. I give credit to the coaches for instilling such a love of the sport,” says David, who was married to Patti in 1986.
Now retired from competitive fencing, the couple has found the transition to coaching an extremely rewarding experience. They recently coached the Manitoba men’s and women’s fencing team at the Canada Winter Games in March 2003. The Manitoba team captured five medals — their best-ever finish on the national stage.
"It’s rewarding when your team succeeds,” says David. “Coaching young people who have so much potential, and enthusiasm for life and learning is an environment which gives back to you ten times what you put into it,” adds Patti, who coaches full-time at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario.
Their unique partnership has been advantageous for their fencing pupils.
"It’s a wonderful experience because we pretty much live fencing. We come home and talk about the training, we share goals, and it’s easier to help develop the kids’ abilities,” says David.
The couple has also passed on their passion for the sport to their daughter, Rebecca, who hopes to compete at the Canada Winter Games in 2007.
