Good Knight, Clemson

As you can imagine, I get to meet some of the kindest and intelligent people! I also get to meet some very interesting people. In early February 2026, I was asked to pick someone up at the airport and drive them to the T Ed Garrison Arena in Clemson. In case you did not know, this arena is part of Clemson University’s animal science program and is located south of the main campus, kind of near Tri-County technical College.

When I met the passenger at the airport and we started our way towards Clemson, I discovered that he was actually participating in a tournament for the weekend. I had no idea there was actually a tournament going on and so our discussion centered around his weekend and what he would actually be doing.

He flew in from Seattle and explained that the tournament was actually an annual tournament and attendees were coming from all over the world. In fact, it was an international tournament. He was a medieval fighter and the tournament this year was called Carolina Carnage Fest 2026! I had no idea that was actually a thing. Teams participate in armed battle in groups of up to five on five. Each participant wears a full suit of armor, and they can use medieval weapons like swords, maces, and battle axes.

I learned a lot about the sport, which again to be honest I had no idea even existed. I did not get a chance to attend any of the events for the weekend, but I’m definitely putting them on my calendar for next year. It’s way too interesting to pass up.