Genetics hadn't done much for Katniss's elven heritage. She had not gotten the shorter height, nor the waifish figure. She certainly hadn't gotten the delicately pointed ears, and only her eyes would be considered 'elvish'.

What she lacked in the look, though, she made up for in other departments. Like speed. So he flows around her, and the pommel is coming fast, so she swings her bow around, to slap the wood as hard as she can into his arm, averting his aim and allowing her to step backwards.