Wonder Woman of the Week: Elena Belova
Our Wonder Woman this week is one of the most under-appreciated athletes in Olympic history. Elena Belova was one of the earliest record holders in women's Olympic fencing and was one of the greatest fencers of all time with several world titles and Olympic medals to her name. Belova competed for Russia in foil fencing at the international level including at the 1968, 72, 76, and 80 Olympics in both individual and team events. In those four Olympic games, Belova earned four gold, one silver, and one bronze medals. Between Olympic games, Belova earned eight world titles in the individual event in 1969 and in team events between 1970-79.
In 1970, Elena Belova earned a PhD in pedagogy and in 1997 earned the Olympic Order in Silver- a special award bestow3ed upon those members of the sports community who make significant impact on their sport and its representation in the Olympic Games. In 2007, Belova earned the Pierre de Coubertin medal giving to athletes who exemplify sportsmanship and is the only female athlete to have earned the award. Belova's championship spirit, exemplary sportsmanship, and persistence in growing the sport during the tumultuous downfall of the Soviet Union helped maintain a place for women's fencing in Eastern Europe where women continue to dominate the international circuit today.
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