Bronfman (right) placed ninth in his age-weapon category Photo Kasey Byrne

Gabriel Bronfman, a seventh grader at Orinda Intermediate School, traveled to Reno in early July to compete in the US Fencing Association Summer Nationals/North American Cup. He finished ninth in his age-weapon category, Youth 12 Men's Epee. Bronfman also qualified for and competed in Youth 14 Men's Epee, finishing 71st. He trains at both George Platt's Swordplay in Concord, and at Golden Gate Fencing in San Francisco; he has been fencing for two years.

Fencers come from all over the US and Canada to compete at Summer Nationals, held once every year in July, qualifying for this event through competition at local fencing tournaments. More than 3500 fencers from 10-year-olds to over 40-year-olds competed in individual and team events.