Miles Chamley-Watson has a chance to make American fencing history. His road to the Paris Olympics is only 65 days, and it will take more than just skill at fencing to get there. Chamley-Watson was ranked second in foil fencing going into the Summer Olympics in 2012. He made history in 2013 by being the first fencer from the United States to achieve an individual gold medal at the World Championships. However, he faced troubles in his childhood due to ADHD.
Chamley-Watson, who grew up in the United States but was born in London, was surrounded by disciplinary actions and expulsions due to his academic struggles. He struggled with ADHD as a child and wasn’t a stellar student. The 34-year-old recently said, according to Mens Health, that “for just being stupid,” he was expelled from multiple schools before turning ten. He was enrolled in an after-school program at the Dwight School in New York City to constructively channel his enthusiasm. When presented with the option to select between fencing, badminton, and tennis, he went for the former as he was drawn to the sport’s restrained rage.
Fencing was introduced to Chamley-Watson by coincidence. He recalled, “Swords are fun,” indicating his original interest. “But then I was like, ‘Wait, I can stab people and not get in trouble? This is awesome. This could be my purpose.’” His natural aptitude was soon apparent. With his swift reflexes and 80-inch wingspan, he was an extremely tricky competitor. In four weeks from the start, he won his very first tournament.
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He proceeded to advance quickly, winning a full scholarship at Penn State. He contributed to the winning of 2x NCAA team titles there. Fencing, according to Chamley-Watson, is like his Ritalin because it keeps him engaged by combining mental and physical demands. He compared the strategic and physical difficulties of the sport to those of boxing and chess. By 2016, Chamley-Watson was a key member of the American squad that took home a bronze medal from Rio. He stood out in the fencing community with his original technique, which includes a move that bears his name, the “Chamley-Watson,” in which he strikes a rival by encircling his arm around his head. He missed the Olympics in Tokyo due to a knee condition, but his spirit never faltered.
Miles Chamley-Watsons’ training and eyes on Paris Olympics
Chamley-Watson’s rigorous and orderly training schedule shows his dedication to quality. He mixes strength training and fencing drills into his routines, all the while keeping a lighthearted attitude. “F*** you guys,” he cracks after a tough workout approaching a blend of humor and energy. Chamley-Watson knows the importance of this time as the Olympics in Paris draw near.
The United States has never won an individual or team fencing gold medal. That’s what Chamley-Watson wants to change. He acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and said, “I’m zoned in.” His training plan, which consists of circuit training, weightlifting, and plyometric exercises, is intended to optimize physical and mental preparedness. “Working out gives you clarity,” he continued highlighting how important physical health is to him as a whole. “Going to the gym is free therapy.”
Outside of fencing, Chamley-Watson’s achievement has created opportunities. He dabbled in fashion design and modeled for companies like Todd Snyder and Tommy Hilfiger. “My life has gotten so much bigger than fencing,” he said. He yet maintains a strong commitment and uses his variety of interests to keep himself grounded and inspired.
