Midwest Rivalry
Holzgrafe and Harwood Meet Again
Nathaniel Holzgrafe and James A. Harwood have shared five podiums together, most recently at the Orion Summer Star Series.
Sep 27, 2026 · 3 min read
Nathaniel Holzgrafe and James A. Harwood represent the persistent, high-level competition that keeps local fencing vibrant.
In the world of fencing, rivalries are often forged in the local clubs and regional circuits. Nathaniel Holzgrafe, representing the Des Moines Fencing Club, and James A. Harwood, of Orion Fencing, have become fixtures on the same podiums in the Midwest, having shared a top-three finish five times.
Their most recent encounter took place on August 30th at the Senior Mixed Foil event held during the Orion Summer Star Series. It was another chapter in a series of meetings that stretch back years. Both athletes are deeply invested in their regional fencing community, with Harwood having collected 13 titles and Holzgrafe balancing competition in all three weapons.
For these two, the rivalry is a constant push for improvement. Harwood, who holds a D24 foil rating and a C23 saber rating, has shown great versatility across the Orion Star Series tournaments. Holzgrafe, with five seasons under his belt and 33 podium finishes, matches that intensity with his own persistent appearances.
These local rivalries are the backbone of the sport. They provide a predictable but challenging test for athletes who may not always travel to national-level events. When Holzgrafe and Harwood step onto the strip, they know exactly what to expect from one another, which only makes the bouts more tactical and intense.
The frequency with which they meet on the podium is a testament to their longevity and commitment to the sport. As the fall season approaches, both are likely already preparing for their next head-to-head, keeping the local fencing scene as competitive as ever.