Stellar Performances and Remarkable Journeys of Team USA's
Finest Fencers
These fencers have earned their spots through dedication and exceptional performances on both national and international stages.
Written by Vikki Jones
Photo Credit: Vikki Jones | VMH Sports
In an exclusive event held at The New York Athletic Club, athletes Kat Holmes, Hadley Husisian, and Eli Dershwitz shared their remarkable stories leading up to their qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics in fencing's three diverse disciplines - Epee, Foil, and Saber. These fencers have earned their spots through dedication and exceptional performances on both national and international stages.
Kat Holmes, a Women's Epee fencer, traces her love for fencing back to her childhood fascination with medieval times and sword fighting. With a decorated collegiate career at Princeton, Holmes has marked her journey with numerous achievements, including a historic gold medal at the Senior World Championships in 2018. Her unique
blend of skill and humor shines through as she recounts her early struggles in the sport, highlighting her journey from beginner to world champion.
Hadley Husisian, a rising star in the Women's Epee category, discovered fencing as a second choice after facing waitlists for archery classes. Her rapid rise in the sport led her to become the first Team USA athlete to repeat as a Junior Epee World Champion and secure notable results at various championships. Through her dedication and individualistic approach to the sport, Husisian has carved a unique path to success.
In the Men's Saber category, Eli Dershwitz of Harvard reflects on his team's unexpected journey to qualification for Paris 2024. A seasoned fencer, Dershwitz embraces his role as a mentor to younger teammates, acknowledging the blend of confidence and humility within the team. Their historic qualification marks a new chapter for USA Men's Saber, setting the stage for a thrilling Olympic appearance.
As USA Fencing athletes gear up to represent Team USA at the Paris 2024 Olympics, their stories symbolize the diverse paths that lead to fencing excellence. With each fencer bringing their unique blend of skill, determination, and passion to the strip, the USA Fencing Team stands poised to leave a lasting impact on the world stage.
The journey to Paris 2024 Olympics represents a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication for these athletes. As they prepare to showcase their talents on fencing's grandest platform, the world eagerly awaits the spectacle that will unfold in the arena, where the clash of swords will resonate with the spirit of competition and camaraderie.
Fencing Demonstration at The New York Athletic Club
From Duels to Zorro: Unveiling the Art and Technology of Fencing - Epee, Foil, and Saber
In the world of fencing, where precision meets athleticism, the disciplines of Epee, Foil, and Saber have captivated audiences for centuries with their blend of skill, strategy, and sheer spectacle. From the swashbuckling duels of the past to the iconic imagery of Zorro's flashing blade, fencing has evolved into a modern sport that intertwines tradition with cutting-edge technology.
At the heart of the sport lies the intricacies of scoring, where fencers vie for points by skillfully touching their opponents with their weapons. Each discipline - Epee, Foil, and Saber - brings its own set of rules and tactics to the piste, creating a dynamic and engaging spectacle for fans and enthusiasts alike.
In Foil and Epee, the scoring system is triggered by any depression of the blade's tip, a moment that sets the stage for intense exchanges between fencers. In Foil, the illumination of a red or green light signals a valid touch to the opponent's target area, while a yellow light denotes contact with an off-target area. Epee, on the other hand, encompasses the entire body as a valid target, eliminating the need for off-target signals and emphasizing strategic precision in every touch.
Kat Holmes
Princeton
Hadley Husisian
Princeton
Saber, with its fast-paced action and dynamic movements, introduces a different scoring dynamic. A red or green light illuminates when the edge of the blade contacts the opponent's torso, arms, or head, emphasizing the weapon's cutting nature. This unique feature distinguishes Saber from the other disciplines, adding a layer of excitement and strategy to each bout.
Behind the scenes, technology plays a crucial role in capturing and displaying these split-second interactions. Fencers are intricately linked to the scoring apparatus through a body wire, connecting their weapons to the system that registers each touch. This intricate setup ensures accuracy and fairness in judging, enhancing the overall competitive experience for participants and spectators alike.
As fencers step onto the strip, clad in protective gear and armed with centuries-old weapons, they embody a legacy that spans generations. From the elegant duels of yesteryears to the modern arenas of international competition, fencing continues to enchant and inspire, blending tradition with innovation in a display of skill and artistry like no other.
With each touch of the blade, a story unfolds - a tale of determination, strategy, and sheer athleticism that showcases the timeless allure of fencing. And as the world watches in awe, the legacy of this noble sport carries on that transcends time and captivates hearts around the globe.