Abstract: A device to activate a timer integrated into, or attached to, an electronic fencing apparatus whereby the fencers themselves may activate the timer with their fencing equipment, eliminating the need for an official, thereby facilitating training. Upon activation, the device will wait an unpredictable amount of time before starting the timer, preventing competitors from anticipating when the event will begin, which facilitates a fair competition. When a third party is present and able to activate the timer, the unpredictable delay also eliminates intentional or unintentional unfairness on the part of the third party.