In the wild: Jackie Dubrovich

Meet Jackie Dubrovich, an American foil fencer who is making her Olympic return in Paris.

1. Can you share the moment you decided to pursue fencing professionally? What inspired you to take this path?

2. After graduating from Columbia in 2016, I made the decision to pursue my Olympic dream. Representing my country in the Olympics has always been a lifelong ambition. The allure of competing at the highest level, the dedication required, and the pursuit of excellence were all driving factors. Now, as I prepare for my second Olympics in Paris, I feel incredibly privileged and excited to compete on such a prestigious stage.

3. What advice would you give to young athletes who aspire to compete at the Olympic level?

4. One of the most important lessons I've learned is that in sports, you experience far more losses than wins. Each defeat is a learning opportunity that contributes to your growth and resilience. It’s crucial to stay dedicated to your goals, maintain a positive mindset, and continuously strive for improvement. Success at the Olympic level requires perseverance, determination, and the ability to bounce back stronger after setbacks.

5. As an Olympic fencer, how do Caraa bags fit into your hectic and demanding lifestyle? Are there specific functionalities that resonate with your training and competitions?

6. With fencing, we carry a lot of equipment like body cords, gloves, and masks, so having a bag that accommodates all these essentials is crucial. Caraa bags are perfect for me because they have numerous pockets and compartments where I can neatly organize and store my gear. It’s not just about space but also about functionality; the design allows me to access everything quickly during training and competitions.

7. Who has been your biggest mentor in your fencing career, and how have they impacted you?

8. My fiancé has been my most significant mentor in my fencing journey. He also had a successful fencing career and transitioned into coaching after retiring during the COVID-19 pandemic. Working with him has been a unique experience; having your coach also be your life partner brings a deep level of understanding and support. His guidance and expertise have been instrumental in refining my skills and taking my fencing to new heights. I cherish the journey we've embarked on together, both personally and professionally.