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The world of fencing in Italy and Cuba is in mourning following the sudden passing of Master Camilo Bory Barrientos, who died in Taranto, Italy, due to a heart attack at the age of 53.
The Cuban athlete and coach, born on October 28, 1971, in Santiago de Cuba, was a prominent figure both in the Cuban national team and at the Taranto Fencing Club, where he trained generations of young athletes since 2008.
The Italian Fencing Federation (FIS) expressed its sorrow for the loss and announced the postponement of the first Regional Italian Championship in Bari as a sign of mourning.
After a notable career as a fencer in his country, Camilo arrived in Italy in 2008 thanks to an international collaboration agreement between the FIS and the Cuban Federation.
In the southern region of Apulia, he became a key member of the coaching staff at the Taranto Fencing Club, where he trained both boys and girls, teaching them the sport's discipline and instilling his values in them.
"With skill, humility, and empathy, he always had a preference for team spirit. As he recounted in an interview (...) which conveys in a few emblematic words his philosophy on fencing and beyond: 'In the gym we are united, we work together and in peace. We put in effort and enthusiasm, and that’s how we move forward. Like a family,'" the Federation quoted.
The Fencing Club of Taranto, his sporting home for nearly two decades, bid farewell to him as "a role model, teacher, and guide for the hundreds of young people who had the privilege of having him as a professor," and emphasized his charisma, dedication, and generosity both on and off the piste.
"His passion for fencing fueled the growth of an entire sports community, instilling values of respect, commitment, and loyalty," he said.
Recognized in Italy, forgotten in Cuba
From Cuba, the news was primarily shared through social media and messages from friends and former colleagues.
The Facebook group "Friends of Fajardo" expressed its sorrow over the passing of Bory Barrientos, "a great figure in Santiago and Cuban fencing."
The fact, however, has not resonated in official institutions and newspapers.
Journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada expressed his regret over that contrast in a post on Facebook.
"Camilo made history in national fencing, but like many athletes of his generation, he had to build his future outside the Island," he noted.
"While in Taranto he will be remembered as a 'pillar' of the club and an example of humility and dedication, in Cuba his name scarcely appears in official notes, reflecting the systematic neglect towards those who brought sports glory but chose to forge their own path beyond borders," he emphasized.
A brilliant career
Before settling in Italy, Camilo Bory Barrientos was one of the prominent figures in Cuban fencing. He participated in 82 official competitions, with a record of 27 national medals and 42 international ones.
His achievements include a gold medal at the World University Championship in Buffalo, United States, five titles at the Pan American Games, both individual and team events; three gold medals and two bronze medals at the Central American Games, and seven medals at the World Cup.
After 18 years with the Cuban national team, he traveled to Taranto, where he became a cornerstone of the local club's coaching staff, training children and adolescents who achieved national results, such as gold and bronze medals.
A legacy that transcends sports
Camilo Bory Barrientos will be remembered not only for his successes in fencing but also for his human qualities.
"Always generous, available, and ready to help, he was a model of discipline and humanity, fostering the growth of an entire sports community," emphasized the Italian newspaper Giornale RossoBlu in tribute.
The FIS and the Taranto Fencing Club bid him farewell with words of gratitude: "Thank you for everything, Maestro Camilo!"
His life and work impart a lesson that transcends borders: Cuban talent continues to shine in the world, even if too often far from the land of its origin.
Frequently Asked Questions about the death of Cuban fencer Camilo Bory Barrientos
How did Camilo Bory Barrientos die?
Camilo Bory Barrientos passed away from a heart attack at the age of 53 in Taranto, Italy. His sudden death left the fencing community in Cuba and Italy in mourning.
What was the legacy of Camilo Bory Barrientos in Italy?
Camilo Bory Barrientos became a cornerstone of the Taranto Fencing Club in 2008, training generations of young athletes and leaving a legacy of discipline, respect, and team spirit. He was regarded as a reference point, teacher, and mentor for his dedication and charisma.
How was the passing of Camilo Bory Barrientos received in Cuba?
In Cuba, the news of the passing of Camilo Bory Barrientos was mainly known through social media and messages from friends and former colleagues. It did not resonate within institutions and official newspapers, reflecting the neglect of those who brought sporting glory outside the island.
What sports achievements did Camilo Bory Barrientos attain during his career?
Camilo Bory Barrientos had a remarkable career in fencing, participating in 82 official competitions and earning 27 national medals and 42 international medals. Among his achievements are gold medals in the University World Championship, Pan American Games, and Central American Games.
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