Famous American Fencers

Lee Kiefer is a highly accomplished American right-handed foil fencer with a remarkable career in the sport. She has achieved numerous accolades including three Olympic gold medals in women's foil, making her the most decorated women's foil fencer in American history. Kiefer has also secured titles in NCAA championships, Pan American championships, and a team world championship. As a four-time Olympian, she has consistently represented the United States at the highest levels of competition, demonstrating exceptional skill and sportsmanship in her performances.

Gerek Meinhardt is an accomplished American right-handed foil fencer with a notable professional career. He has achieved significant success in various competitions, including being a two-time individual NCAA champion, 12-time team Pan American champion, and three-time individual Pan American champion. Meinhardt also holds the prestigious title of 2019 team world champion. As a four-time Olympian, he has represented the United States in the 2008 Beijing, 2012 London, 2016 Rio de Janeiro, and 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, earning two team Olympic bronze medals.

Mariel Zagunis is a prominent American sabre fencer with a remarkable professional career. She has achieved immense success in the sport, being a two-time Olympic champion in the individual sabre category. Zagunis holds the distinction of being the first American to secure a gold medal in Olympic fencing. Additionally, she has earned two Olympic bronze team medals and has participated in five Olympic Games. Her contributions to fencing have solidified her as a respected and accomplished figure in the sport.

Monica Aksamit is a retired American Olympic saber fencer who achieved notable success in her career. She won a bronze medal in the Women's Saber Team competition at the 2016 Summer Olympics and a gold medal at the 2019 Pan American Games as part of Team USA. In addition to her fencing accomplishments, she also ventured into the entertainment industry by participating as a contestant on Fox's dating and relationship reality television series revival, Joe Millionaire: For Richer or Poorer in 2022.

Peter Jonathan Westbrook is a renowned American former sabre fencing national, Pan American Games champion, and Olympic bronze medalist. He is also the founder of the Peter Westbrook Foundation (PWF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in New York City. The foundation focuses on using the sport of fencing as a tool to help young individuals from under-served communities develop important life skills and academic abilities. Through his work with PWF, Westbrook has made a significant impact on the lives of many young people.

Kinmont Hoitsma was an accomplished American fencer who represented his country at the 1956 Summer Olympics in both individual and team épée events. Following his successful fencing career, he transitioned into a teaching role, where he shared his expertise and passion for the sport with others. His dedication to education and mentorship was evident in his work as a teacher. Additionally, Hoitsma was known for his partnership with Cecil Beaton, a renowned figure in the arts, further highlighting his diverse interests and connections within the professional realm.

Keeth Smart is an accomplished American saber fencer who made history by becoming the first American to achieve the top ranking in saber fencing for males. With three Olympic appearances to his credit, Smart's talent and dedication were highlighted at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing where he secured a silver medal in the team sabre event. His impressive achievements on the international stage have solidified his reputation as a skilled and successful athlete in the sport of fencing.

Sada Jacobson is an accomplished American Olympic fencer known for her exceptional achievements in women's sabre. She has won multiple Olympic medals, including the silver in 2008 and bronze in 2004 for Individual Sabre. Additionally, she secured the title of Pan American Games champion in 2003. Her remarkable success and contributions to the sport led to her induction into the United States Fencing Hall of Fame in 2016, solidifying her legacy as one of the most prominent figures in fencing history.

Miles Chamley-Watson is a highly accomplished right-handed foil fencer with an impressive professional career. He has achieved notable successes, including being a 13-time team Pan American champion, 2019 team world champion, and 2013 individual world champion. With three Olympic appearances under his belt, Chamley-Watson's career culminated in winning a team bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics. His dedication, skill, and consistent performance have solidified his reputation as a top athlete in the world of fencing.

Nzingha Prescod is an accomplished American foil fencer known for her impressive achievements in the sport. She has secured numerous titles and accolades throughout her career, including being a World Champion in foil, a bronze medalist at the World Fencing Championships, and a three-time medalist at the Pan American Games. With a ranking that has reached as high as world #5, Prescod has proven herself as a top-tier athlete in the fencing world. Additionally, she has been appointed as an athlete director on the USA Fencing Board of Directors, showcasing her leadership and commitment to the sport.

Dagmara "Daga" Wozniak is an accomplished American saber fencer known for her impressive career in the sport. She has represented the United States at multiple Olympic Games, showcasing her skill and dedication on the international stage. Wozniak has been recognized as one of the top 10 saber fencers globally, highlighting her talent and competitive spirit. Her professional journey in fencing has been marked by notable achievements and contributions to the sport, solidifying her reputation as a respected athlete in the fencing community.

Ibtihaj Muhammad is an accomplished American sabre fencer and a prominent member of the United States fencing team. She gained recognition for breaking barriers as the first Muslim American woman to compete in the Olympics wearing a headscarf. Her impressive career highlights include winning an Olympic bronze medal while proudly sporting her headscarf. Throughout her professional journey, Ibtihaj has inspired many with her skill, determination, and resilience, making a significant impact on the world of fencing and beyond.

Henry Skillman Breckinridge was an American lawyer and politician who served as the United States Assistant Secretary of War from 1913 to 1916. He gained prominence as the attorney for Charles Lindbergh during the Lindbergh kidnapping trial. Breckinridge opposed the New Deal from the right and ran against President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1936 Democratic primaries, receiving less than 3 percent of the vote. Throughout his career, he was known for his legal expertise and involvement in political affairs.

Rebecca Ward is a highly accomplished American sabre fencer, known for her exceptional skill and achievements in the sport. She clinched the gold medal at the 2006 World Fencing Championships by defeating Mariel Zagunis in the final. Ward also secured bronze medals in both individual and team sabre events at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She made history by winning the women's NCAA national individual sabre championship three times. Additionally, Ward was honored with induction into the USA Fencing Hall of Fame in 2015 for her outstanding contributions to the sport.

Timothy Frank Morehouse is an accomplished American fencer known for winning a Silver Medal in the men's sabre event at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing as part of the United States fencing team. He is coached by Yury Gelman, a prominent figure in the fencing world. Morehouse is also recognized for founding the Fencing in the Schools program, demonstrating his commitment to promoting the sport among youth. Through his achievements and initiatives, Morehouse has made a significant impact on the fencing community.

Race Imboden is a prominent figure in the world of fencing, having achieved significant success in international competitions. As a left-handed former foil fencer, he has won numerous team and individual Pan American championships, as well as a team world championship in 2019. Imboden is a three-time Olympian, securing two team Olympic bronze medals in the process. Alongside his fencing career, he has also ventured into the world of fashion modeling, showcasing his versatility and talent across multiple professional domains.

Alexander Massialas is an accomplished American right-handed foil fencer with an impressive professional career. He has secured numerous titles and championships, including being a two-time NCAA champion, 11-time team Pan American champion, and two-time individual Pan American champion. Massialas also achieved the title of 2019 team world champion. As a three-time Olympian, he has won an individual Olympic silver medal and two team Olympic bronze medals across his appearances in the 2012 London, 2016 Rio de Janeiro, and 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Soren Hunter Miles S Thompson is an accomplished American épée fencer, known for his impressive career achievements. He is a two-time Olympian who represented the United States in the 2004 Athens Olympics and the 2012 London Olympics. Thompson reached the quarterfinals in Athens, securing the best US result in the event since 1956 at that time. He won a gold medal and world championship in the team épée event at the 2012 World Fencing Championships. Thompson's success led to his induction into the USA Fencing Hall of Fame and the Southern California Jewish Sports Hall of Fame.

Eli Dershwitz is an accomplished American left-handed saber fencer with a stellar professional career. He has achieved significant milestones, including being a five-time individual Pan American champion, a two-time Olympian, and the 2023 saber World Champion. Dershwitz made history by winning the 2015 Junior World Fencing Championships and becoming the youngest US senior men's saber championship holder in 2014. He has excelled in various competitions, winning titles at the Pan-American Championships and the 2015 Pan American Games. Dershwitz's impressive rankings, silver medal at the 2018 World Fencing Championships, and gold medal at the 2023 World Fencing Championships solidify his status as a top-tier fencer. He continues to represent the United States on the international stage, with upcoming participation at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Courtney Hurley is an accomplished American fencer with a successful career in the sport. She has competed internationally since the age of 15, earning a bronze medal in the women's team épée at the 2012 Summer Olympics. A standout at the University of Notre Dame, she was a 4-time All-American. Coached by her father, Bob Hurley, she has continued to excel in fencing, qualifying to represent the United States at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo in 2021.

Herbert Morris Cohen is an accomplished American Olympic foil fencer known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. Throughout his professional career, he has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to fencing, showcasing strategic prowess and agility in competitions. Cohen has represented the United States on the international stage, competing at the highest levels of the sport. His tenacity, focus, and commitment to excellence have earned him a respected reputation among peers and fans alike, solidifying his legacy as a prominent figure in the world of fencing.

Ivan James Lee is an accomplished American Olympic sabre fencer and coach with a notable career in fencing. He has achieved multiple championships and accolades in sabre fencing, including being inducted into the US Fencing Association Hall of Fame. Lee has also served as a police officer in the New York City Police Department and as the Women's Fencing Team Head Coach at Long Island University. He was elected Chair of the board of directors of USA Fencing but faced suspension and legal issues related to allegations of misconduct.

Erinn Smart is an accomplished American foil fencer who represented the United States at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing. She competed in both the women's individual and team foil events. Smart is known for her skill and dedication to the sport, which has led her to success at the national and international levels. She has been coached by Buckie Leach and has made significant contributions to the fencing community. Smart's achievements in fencing highlight her as a respected and talented athlete.

Byron Krieger was a prominent American fencer who excelled in foil, sabre, and épée. He competed in the Olympics in 1952 and 1956, showcasing his exceptional skills on an international stage. Krieger's talent was also evident in the 1951 Pan American Games, where he secured two gold medals. His dedication to the sport and remarkable achievements solidified his reputation as a skilled and accomplished fencer, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of fencing.

Chris O'Loughlin is an accomplished American Olympic épée fencer known for his skill and dedication to the sport. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional talent and sportsmanship, earning numerous accolades and achievements. O'Loughlin's commitment to the sport has seen him compete at the highest levels of fencing, representing his country with pride and determination. His strategic prowess and technical proficiency make him a respected figure in the fencing community, inspiring aspiring fencers and fans alike.

John Gavin Hurd was a prominent figure in the fields of oil and gas production, ranching, and diplomacy. He served as the U.S. ambassador to South Africa during the Nixon administration, from 1970 to 1975. Prior to his diplomatic role, Hurd made a name for himself as an independent oil and gas producer. Additionally, he showcased his athleticism by competing as a fencer in the 1936 Olympics, highlighting his diverse range of talents and interests.

Roberta Brown is an accomplished American swordmaster and actress, renowned for her expertise in sword fighting. She gained recognition for her work as a sword coach and double on the TV show "Queen of Swords," where she portrayed female characters played by notable actresses. Brown has also choreographed numerous fights and sword battles for various television series, theatre productions, and movies. Her skill and passion for swordsmanship have established her as a sought-after professional in the entertainment industry, known for her exceptional work behind and in front of the camera.

Alfonso Morales is an accomplished American fencer with a notable professional career. He competed in multiple Summer Olympics from 1960 to 1972, showcasing his skills in both individual and team sabre events. Morales's dedication to the sport and consistent participation on the Olympic stage demonstrate his commitment to fencing excellence. Through his performances at these prestigious events, Morales has solidified his reputation as a skilled and respected fencer within the international sports community.

Albert "Albie" Axelrod was a prominent American foil fencer known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. He represented the US in five Olympic Games and secured a bronze medal at the 1960 Olympics. Axelrod made history as the sole American men's foil fencer to advance to the finals at the world championships until Gerek Meinhardt's bronze win in 2010. Throughout his career, he demonstrated dedication, talent, and sportsmanship, leaving a lasting impact on the fencing community.

James Laurence Melcher was a prominent American hedge fund manager and accomplished Olympic fencer. He gained recognition for his participation in the individual and team épée events at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich, Germany. Alongside his athletic pursuits, Melcher established himself as a successful hedge fund manager, showcasing his expertise in financial markets. His dual career paths demonstrated his determination, skill, and ability to excel in both the competitive world of sports and the dynamic realm of finance.

Nicole Ross is an accomplished American foil fencer known for her success in both individual and team events. She has represented the United States at multiple prestigious competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships. Ross achieved significant milestones in her fencing career, such as winning the NCAA individual women's foil title and earning All-American honors multiple times. She continues to be a prominent figure in the fencing world, showcasing her talent and dedication on the international stage.

Emily Ruth Cross is a highly accomplished U.S. foil fencer, known for her success at the 2008 Beijing Olympics where she won a silver medal with the U.S. Women's foil team. She has excelled in various competitions, winning medals at the Pan American Games, NCAA Championships, and USA Fencing National Championships. Cross is a Harvard graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and a pediatrics resident at Boston Children's Hospital. Her impressive fencing career includes multiple gold medals at prestigious championships and tournaments.

Ann O'Donnell is a retired American foil fencer who represented her country at the 1972 and 1976 Summer Olympics in both individual and team foil events. Known for her skill and dedication to the sport, O'Donnell's professional career was marked by her participation in prestigious international competitions. Throughout her fencing career, she displayed exceptional talent and sportsmanship, earning recognition for her contributions to the sport. O'Donnell's competitive spirit and commitment to excellence served as an inspiration to aspiring fencers worldwide.

Nick Bravin is a renowned American fencer and lawyer with an impressive professional career. He has achieved remarkable success in fencing, being a four-time U.S. National Champion, a three-time NCAA National Champion, and a two-time Olympian. Bravin's dedication and skill have earned him recognition as a top athlete in the fencing world. In addition to his achievements in sports, he has also pursued a successful career as a lawyer, showcasing his versatility and determination in both fields.

Kamara Latoya James was an accomplished American Olympic épée fencer, known for her skill and dedication to the sport. She began fencing at a young age and quickly excelled, winning a bronze medal at the junior world championships in 2003. James competed in the women's individual épée event at the 2004 Summer Olympics, showcasing her talent on the world stage. Her career was marked by achievements and a commitment to excellence in fencing until her untimely passing at the age of 29 in September 2014.

Kelley Hurley is a highly accomplished American épée fencer with an impressive track record in international competitions. She has represented the United States at multiple Olympics, winning a bronze medal in the women's team épée event at the 2012 Summer Olympics. A standout at the University of Notre Dame, she has been a 4-time All-American. Coached by her father, Bob Hurley, Kelley has competed on World Teams with her sister Courtney. She continues to excel in the sport, with a strong ranking in the individual épée category leading up to the Rio 2016 Olympics.

Emily Jacobson is an accomplished American Olympic sabre fencer known for her impressive achievements in the sport. She won a bronze medal in the 2003 Pan American Games and further solidified her talent by becoming the 2004 Junior World Champion in women's saber. Her dedication and skill have propelled her to success on the international stage, earning her recognition and respect within the fencing community. Jacobson's competitive spirit and commitment to excellence continue to inspire aspiring fencers around the world.

Hanna Thompson is an accomplished American foil and sabre fencer with a successful competitive career. She has represented the United States at various levels, including the Olympics and Junior World Championships. In addition to her athletic achievements, Thompson has transitioned into coaching, having served as an assistant coach at Ohio State and Duke. She has also pursued a legal career, graduating from law school and passing the State Bar exams in California and Hawaii. Currently, Thompson works as a litigator, showcasing her diverse professional skills and interests.

Jason Rogers is a highly accomplished American saber fencer known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. With a successful career spanning several years, he has competed at various national and international fencing competitions, earning recognition for his talent and dedication. Rogers has represented the United States on numerous occasions, showcasing his expertise on the fencing strip. His impressive performances and contributions to the sport have solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the world of saber fencing.

Leslie Marx is an accomplished American fencer and distinguished professor of Economics at Duke University. With expertise in game theory, industrial organization, and microeconomics, she has made significant contributions to the field through her research and publications. As a leading academic figure, Marx has also served in various advisory roles and editorial positions for prestigious economic journals. Her dedication to both academia and fencing exemplifies her commitment to excellence and intellectual pursuits, inspiring students and colleagues alike.