When must the referee intervene in a bout?

The referee must intervene in a bout when there is a potential safety concern. This is essential to ensure the well-being of the fencers, as safety is the top priority in any contact sport, including fencing. The referee is trained to recognize situations that could lead to injury, such as unsafe actions, collisions, or improper equipment. By stepping in at these moments, the referee not only protects the participants but also upholds the integrity of the competition.

The other scenarios presented do not necessarily warrant intervention. Rapid movement can be part of the sport's strategy, and the referee monitors the pace of the bout without automatically intervening. Similarly, a clear dominance by one fencer might indicate a skilled performance but does not pose a safety risk. Finally, touches scored in quick succession are a normal occurrence in fencing and do not require the referee to step in unless there’s a safety issue. Safety concerns are the key trigger for intervention, safeguarding the health of the athletes involved in the match.