Man on a Mission
Ever since Martin Flores was eight years old, he has been on a journey to represent the United States in the Summer Olympics.
This year might be his best opportunity.
Flores’ love for fencing came about unexpectedly. In the summer of 2008, . Flores parents were looking for a summer program to place their son. The Premier Fencing Academy in Carmichael, California, was offering a free two week introductory class.
Flores attended one class, and has not looked back since.
“I love the blend of independence and team building that exist within the sport,” Flores said. “When your fencing off its just you and your opponent, but the moments that build to that moment requires a team.”
There are three styles of fencing: foil, épée, and sabre. Foil is a fencing style in which the objective is to use the tip of the sword to make contact any where in the upper torso area. In addition, foil participants use a 500 gram weapon.
Another style of fencing is épée. This style of fencing allows the entire body of the opponent to be a target. This type of fencing style is the oldest form of fencing.
Lastly, sabre is the fencing style that is fast pace. It is so fast that it’s known to be the second fastest sport in the Summer Olympics.The reason being it allows opponents to use a mixture of slashes and flicks.
Flores favorite style of fencing is sabre.
“It’s less back and forth and mental tactics and more engagement,” said Flores via text message. “Thus one has to be patient and aggressive at the same time. Which makes the sport so dynamic.”
Flores’ biggest take away from fencing is its importance of precision and strategic thinking . Flores is currently a junior pursuing a degree in psychology at Saint Mary’s College of California. Similarly in psychology, Flores is always trying to find other methods and meaning to become more of a dynamic fencer.
Flores is such a student of the game, he watches hours of film of fencing greats. After finishing his school assignments, Flores watches film of his idol Daryl Homer. He takes notes and recognize areas in which he can improve on.
“Flores has really improved his épée skills,” said Flores’s fencing partner Kyle Dewitt. “He has been placing an emphasis on being more efficient and it’s great to admire the fruits of his labor.”
So far Flores has been 39–2 with his latest victory coming in regionals which was held in Sacramento, California. Next for Flores is nationals, which will be held in Kansas City, Missouri, in October.
“It’s surreal that I am going to have this opportunity,” Martin said. “There were a lot of sacrifices that were made to get to this point. I’m gonna do my best to make the most of it.”
For Flores this journey to represent the USA in the Summer Olympics wasn’t necessarily a journey he planned, but one he has earned. He’s continuous pursuit of perfection has allow him to be one more step closer to his goal.
Flores is not only committed, but determined.
