The bronze went to Spain. This is Spain’s only fencing medal at this Universiade. “We are the only team to take part in fencing team event of the 21st Universiade,” said one Spanish fencer. “Our victory is 100 percent.”

Although Italy just got the silver medal, Italian fencers were still very happy. “Our performance was not excellent, but it was good,” said Italy’s Giampiero Pastore. “We confronted the big Russia, so we had prepared to accept defeat.”

“Russia is always very strong,”said Romania’s Mihai Claubiu Covaliu, men’s sabre world No.1 and champion of the 2000 Olympics.“There are many excellent fencing training schools in Moscow.”

(U21net 08/31/2001)