Some years ago when I was in college, I had a crush on a girl who was a member of the fencing team. Alas, like my crush on the girl who was on the gymnastics team (different school), it did not work out.
But, I did go to quite a few fencing meets and I learned a few things about the sport. Having said that, I have not caught any fencing action on tv so far, but rumor has it swimming and gymnastics have 'slightly better' ratings.
Nevertheless, there was a huge upset today in women's team fencing as Ukraine defeated the host Chinese team 45-44 in a come from behind victory, which should give fencing schools a big boost in Kiev.
In the final round, Olga Kharlan (we presume this is her picture) upset Tan Xue, who was ranked fourth in the world. China had a commanding 25-15 lead until Round 6 when Kharlan defeated Bao Yingying.
The match was tied 44-44, when Kharlan delivered the 'fatal blow.'
Thus the team consisting of Kharlan, Olena Khormrova, Olha Zhovnir and Halyna Pundyk won the gold medal for Ukraine.
Khormrova put the victory in simple terms:
"We had nothing to lose, so we relaxed and started fencing."
Our American girls came in third in team fencing today as they defeated France, which should make Republicans happy.
Side Note: I know some of you might be saying: "Omigod. This is turning into a sports blog..." Well, it is good for ratings (over 250 hits yesterday, and I think we average nine a day!"
Useful Links (Unrelated, except that it deals with sports):
http://www.onlyagame.org - A Link to the NPR sports show from WBUR/Boston.
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