Malden High School student and international fencer, junior Robert Hondor, started fencing when he was quite young because his father, a former Romanian fencer and currently his fencing coach. Hondor has travelled to many different states and countries for fencing tournaments, constantly challenging himself and furthering his abilities.
In fencing, there are three types of weapons: épeé, foil, and saber. Hondor stated that he does épeé, “where you can hit your opponent anywhere on the body and there aren't any complicated rules about how you can score, unlike the other two.”
His father was the person who initially got Hondor into fencing, but “being able to travel to do something [he loves] with people [he] grew up with” caused fencing to become a huge part of his life. His father did fencing back in Romania before moving to the United States and opening his own shop in which they have both beginners classes as well as advanced, competitive courses and training. Practicing hours upon hours a week may seem tedious, but for Hondor it is something to look forward for, in which he can train and better his abilities.
As far as goals, Hondor has accomplished many, and set many more. He said that his last competition in Kansas City in which he took home gold in the Cadet Mens épeé was his proudest moment thus far, however, “[he wants] to go as far as [he] can.”
He also claimed that “[he wants] to fence in World Championships with the best fencers around the world, and maybe if [he] has it in [him], to qualify for the Olympics.” With the love and commitment Hondor shows for this sport, it is no wonder he is travelling around the world competing.
Great story, very inspiring! Malden High student to be one of the best fencers in the country, great honor