Biography:
Lee Kiefer (born June 15, 1994) is an American right-handed foil fencer. She is a trailblazer in the sport and has achieved numerous accomplishments throughout her career. Kiefer’s exceptional talent, determination, and passion for fencing have propelled her to become one of the most successful American fencers in history.
Kiefer was born in Cleveland, Ohio and grew up in Lexington, Kentucky. Her parents, Teresa and Steve Kiefer, both have backgrounds in the medical field. Her mother, a psychiatrist, immigrated to the US from the Philippines as a child, while her father, a neurosurgeon, once captained the Duke University fencing team. This strong familial support played a significant role in shaping Kiefer’s journey in fencing.
Kiefer attended Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, where she honed her fencing skills. She displayed immense talent and determination from a young age, which set the stage for her future success. In 2011, she earned a bronze medal in Women’s foil at the World Fencing Championships, making her mark on the international stage at just 17 years old.
Continuing her fencing career at the University of Notre Dame, Kiefer became part of the prestigious Fighting Irish team. She not only excelled academically but also achieved remarkable victories on the fencing strip. By winning the 2014 NCAA Fencing National Championships, she joined a select group of athletes who have been named individual national champions.
Kiefer’s journey to the top was not without its challenges. In the 2012 London Olympic Games, she finished in 5th place after a tough quarterfinal defeat to eventual silver medalist Arianna Errigo. However, this setback only fueled her motivation to improve and succeed in future competitions.
In the 2014-2015 season, Kiefer reached new heights in her career. She climbed her first World Cup podium, securing a silver medal in Saint-Maur. Her breakthrough continued as she emerged victorious at the Algiers World Cup, defeating the world’s top-ranked fencer at that time, Arianna Errigo, in the process.
Kiefer’s talent and determination shone brightly in the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, held in 2021. As a three-time Olympian, she showcased her expertise on the international stage once again. Kiefer reached the final in the individual foil event and faced off against Inna Deriglazova, the defending champion. With incredible skill and mental fortitude, Kiefer defeated Deriglazova with a score of 15-13, claiming the gold medal. She made history as the first American foil fencer to win an individual Olympic gold medal.
Beyond her extraordinary success in fencing, Kiefer is currently pursuing a career in medicine. She attended the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, following in the footsteps of her parents. This dedication to both her sport and her education exemplifies her drive and ambition in all aspects of her life.
Awards:
– Olympic Gold Medalist, Individual Foil (2020)
– NCAA Fencing National Champion (2014)
– Pan American Champion, Individual and Team (Nine-time champion)
– Team World Champion (2018)
– World Fencing Championships Bronze Medalist (2011)
– Long Beach Grand Prix Winner (2017)
Lee Kiefer’s remarkable achievements and contributions to the world of fencing make her an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly women, worldwide. Her dedication, perseverance, and groundbreaking accomplishments have solidified her place in women’s history and the annals of American sports.