Monday, October 30th, 2023.- The United States and Canada were the big winners on the first day of fencing at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games, claiming the first gold medals in this discipline that will run until November 4th at the Centro de Deportes Paralímpicos.

For the American delegation, the one celebrating was Lee Kiefer, in the female's individual foil category, defeating Canadian Eleanor Harvey in the final with a score of 15-6 to secure the gold medal.

Ecstatic after her victory, Kiefer stated: "I am too happy to have participated in fencing and continue practicing this sport. This event, for me, was very good practice to qualify for the Olympic Games. Being 12 years older, I would say I am more dynamic and smarter. I would say that being more mature makes it much easier to stay completely focused."

Meanwhile, Canada's Dylan French celebrated by defeating Chile's Pablo Núñez 15-12 in the final of the male's individual épée.

"It's amazing. It's incredible to have my coaches and teammates here too. In summary, it was an incredible day. I am speechless; it's amazing. I am very happy; it's a tough competition, and there are very good fencers here. I am very happy with my performance and, of course, with the result," said an emotional French after his victory.

With these medals, the United States and Canada strengthen their positions at the top of the Santiago 2023 medal table. While the American team leads with 168 medals (72 gold), the Canadians are third with 104 medals (35 gold).

Written by Patricio Echagüe and Patricio Cabello; translated by Andrés Castro / Santiago 2023 via Photosport
Photo by Diego Alvujar / Santiago 2023 via Photosport