He has already made history. That of his country, Venezuela, but also that of his sport, fencing. By winning the gold medal in individual epee at the London 2012 Games, Ruben Limardo (photo above) became the first Venezuelan Olympic champion since the Mexico 1968 Games. And the first Latin American fencer to be crowned at the Games summer since 1904. At 38 years old, the fencer continues to live his passion in the present. On the field, but also off it. Very involved in the development of his discipline, he chairs the athletes' commission of the International Fencing Federation (FIE), a position which guarantees him a place on the executive committee of the body. Less than 150 days before the Paris Games 2024, where he is aiming for a fifth Olympic participation, Ruben Limardo answered questions from FrancsJeux.
FrancsJeux : How did you discover fencing in Venezuela?
Reuben Limardo: I discovered fencing thanks to my former coach, Ruperto Gascón. He came to Venezuela from the Soviet Union in 1993 as a coach.
What place does fencing occupy in your country?
After my Olympic gold medal in epee at the London Games in 2012, fencing experienced significant growth in Venezuela. Until then little known, it suddenly became a widely recognized sport. As in the rest of the world, the CODVID-19 pandemic has halted its momentum and slowed its pace. But the Venezuelan Fencing Federation has increased efforts and initiatives to regain good growth, particularly among new generations.
Where is the development of fencing in Venezuela today, and more broadly in South America?
In Venezuela, the number of fencers has been increasing for two years. But we lack coaches for the high level. It is no secret that the Venezuelan population has moved around the world, an exodus which has not been without consequences on the national sporting dynamic. But, despite often limited means, the efforts have been considerable and the results are now recognized almost everywhere on the planet. On the rest of the South American continent, countries have really tried to progress to join international competition. This is especially true in men's epee, where South American athletes are increasingly numerous at the top of the world rankings.
How could fencing accelerate its development in this part of the world?
Development happens through school. With a better presence in the school system, inprimary and secondary, fencing could gain a large number of new participants. Ultimately, this would also make it possible to create university competitions. But the question of coaches is also decisive. It is essential to accelerate the training of technical managers on the continent. At present,it remains very difficult for a South American fencer to attend high-level training courses outside of Latin American and Caribbean countries.
How do you see your role as president of the FIE Athletes’ Commission?
I want to defend athletes, their interests, concerns and demands. And, thus, deserve the trust placed in me to carry out this function. The presidency of the Athletes' Commission really allowed me to broaden my vision of fencing and all its aspects. Many programs have already been launched by the FIE for athletes. Projects are also in the development phase, by and for fencers. I intend to contribute to extend and consolidate them.
What changes or initiatives would you like to promote as spokesperson for FIE athletes?
I wish to work for a balance of resources and means of promotion between continents. By its history and its results, Europe concentrates a large part of the resources. I believe I have a role to play so that the countries furthest from the practice, and those where the development potential is the greatest, can benefit from increased resources. A globally balanced policy will benefit everyone. It will help to grow the fencing community, and make it even stronger.
