American fencer Elizabeth Tartakovsky describes the opportunity to represent the US at the Olympics as a ‘special’ moment.

Elizabeth Tartakovsky, a rising star in the world of fencing, has had a long journey to reach the pinnacle of her sport. From trying her hand at various sports like ballet, tennis, and swimming in her youth to now representing Team USA at the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris, Tartakovsky has found her calling in fencing. A two-time NCAA Women’s Sabre national champion, she will be making her Olympic debut in hopes of bringing home a gold medal for her country.

Tartakovsky’s passion for fencing began when she witnessed her great uncle, Olympic fencing coach Yury Gelman, lead the men’s Sabre team to a silver medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Intrigued by the sport, her parents, immigrants from Ukraine, enrolled her and her sister in a local fencing club in New Jersey. This decision proved to be pivotal in Tartakovsky’s athletic career and set her on the path to success.

Despite facing challenges and overcoming barriers along the way, Tartakovsky remains focused on making her Olympic experience a celebratory one. While her ultimate goal is to win a gold medal in both the individual and team events, she understands the importance of cherishing the journey and being grateful for how far she has come. With a positive mindset and unwavering determination, Tartakovsky is poised to make a strong impact at the upcoming Games.

Representing Team USA holds special significance for Tartakovsky, as it allows her to honor her heritage and the sacrifices her parents made to provide her with opportunities in the United States. She sees the Olympic experience as an opportunity to not only achieve athletic success but also to connect with fellow athletes from diverse backgrounds. Embracing the spirit of unity and camaraderie, Tartakovsky is eager to represent her country on the world stage with pride and determination.

As Tartakovsky prepares to compete in the women’s Sabre event at the Summer Olympics, she reflects on the hard work and dedication that have brought her to this moment. With her birthday on the horizon, she is grateful for the support of her family, coaches, and teammates who have helped her along the way. With a strong sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the opportunities she has been given, Tartakovsky is ready to showcase her skills and passion for fencing on the biggest stage of all in Paris.