We are thrilled to announce that Grade 11 student Yunjia (Lucia) Z is preparing to represent Canada at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris this upcoming July. Lucia’s hard work, dedication, and extraordinary talent have earned her a spot on the Canadian Women’s Fencing Team, where she will be competing in both the individual and team events in women's foil. This incredible opportunity marks a significant milestone in her fencing career, as she takes the global stage to compete against the world’s top athletes.
Lucia’s journey toward the Olympics began last spring when she started her qualification process, facing off against fierce competition from around the world. Her path to Paris has been filled with challenges, but her remarkable focus, passion, and perseverance have carried her through. The entire HTS community is excited to see her compete at such a prestigious event, where she will showcase her skills in late July, undoubtedly making her school and country proud.
Lucia's love for fencing began at an early age. She picked up a foil for the first time when she was just 8 years old, and from that moment on, she was hooked. Her passion for the sport has only grown over the years, and she has pursued her dream with determination, competing in provincial, national, and international competitions along the way. What makes her journey even more special is the strong family connection she shares with fencing. Both of Lucia’s parents have a deep history with the sport, having competed at an elite level for the Chinese National Team. Their experiences and guidance have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in shaping Lucia into the formidable fencer she is today.
Lucia’s dedication to her craft has been evident in her outstanding performances on the international stage. Most recently, in April, she competed in her second tour at the Junior World Championships in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she delivered impressive results. In the Junior-U19 category, Lucia finished 6th, showcasing her skill and competitive spirit against some of the world’s top junior fencers. In the Cadet-U17 category, she earned a remarkable 3rd place, securing a bronze medal—an incredible achievement that solidified her reputation as one of the rising stars in the fencing world. Her achievements extend beyond the medals and accolades. Lucia’s journey in fencing has been a testament to her resilience and dedication. Balancing her academic responsibilities with the intense training required to compete at the highest level, Lucia has demonstrated exceptional time management, discipline, and focus. Her commitment to improving her craft, combined with the support of her coaches, teammates, and family, has prepared her well for the challenges of the Olympic Games.
As Lucia embarks on this thrilling chapter of her fencing career, we are incredibly proud to support her every step of the way. Her participation in the 2024 Paris Olympics is a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, passion, and perseverance. The entire HTS community is cheering her on as she prepares to compete against the best in the world this summer. We wish Lucia the best of luck as she heads to Paris, and we look forward to celebrating her accomplishments, both on and off the piste. Her Olympic journey is just beginning, and we are confident that she will continue to inspire others with her remarkable talent and determination.