Olga Kharlan News

CALGARY , August 4, 2012 - On August 1, 2012, American sabre fencer Mariel Zagunis failed to win what would have been her third straight gold medal in the Olympics in the individual women's sabre event.

Mariel Zagunis of the United States in action against Olga Kharlan of the Ukraine, in the Bronze Medal Bout of the Women's Sabre Individual Fencing.

LONDON – Ohhhh, Mariel. I wasn’t necessarily rooting for former Notre Dame fencer Mariel Zagunis because she’s a semi-local, or because she’s an American, or because she’s got a good story and was selected to be Team USA’s flagbearer — although those were all good reasons to cheer.

She couldn't explain how a big lead in the Olympic semifinals turned into an even-bigger collapse.

Saber fencer Mariel Zagunis approached this day with a steely resolve. After each of her first three matches Wednesday, she walked briskly through the mixed zone -- where reporters can talk briefly to athletes -- with a stern expression and no intention of stopping, even when she had a three-hour break after moving into the semifinals.