The fencing community bid an emotional farewell to Cuban coach Camilo Bory Barrientos, who passed away last Sunday in Italy at the age of 53 due to a heart attack. The Club Scherma Taranto, where he had been a coach since 2008, organized a heartfelt tribute to honor his significant contributions to the sport. In a moving ceremony, his students, donned in their fencing attire, formed a guard of honor with their swords raised as the coffin was carried through, embodying deep respect and admiration.
In an official statement, the club expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received following his death: “We are immersed in a wave of messages filled with memories and appreciation for the wonderful person that Master Camilo was.” The statement also highlighted the presence of officials from the Italian Fencing Federation and Club Scherma Bari at the funeral, underscoring the lasting impact the Cuban coach had on the Italian sporting community.
The tribute was further amplified by Tutto Sport Taranto, which shared a touching video reel featuring the students raising their swords as a symbol of respect. Accompanying the images was a message capturing the community's sentiment: “Camilo forever. There are individuals whose passion, smile, and energy leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those they meet. Camilo was and remains part of our family. Camilo is not just a name; it is a feeling. It is the force that will always unite us as a team and as a family. For those who live with heart, never truly leave.”
Additionally, sports journalist Yasel Porto shared images of the farewell on his page DPorto Sports LLC, remarking: “An extraordinary gesture from his students at the farewell. I hope his soul could witness it from somewhere in this universe.”
Born on October 28, 1971, in Santiago de Cuba, Camilo Bory was a prominent figure in the Cuban national fencing team for nearly two decades. He participated in 82 official competitions, securing 27 national medals and 42 international ones, including a gold at the World University Championships in Buffalo and titles at the Pan American and Central American Games, as well as medals in World Cups.
In 2008, he relocated to Italy as part of a collaboration between the Cuban and Italian Fencing Federations. In Taranto, Apulia, he became a pivotal figure in training young athletes, instilling values such as respect, commitment, and discipline.
Legacy of Camilo Bory Barrientos
What was Camilo Bory Barrientos' role in the Italian fencing community?
Camilo Bory Barrientos was a coach at the Club Scherma Taranto since 2008, where he was a significant influence on young athletes, promoting values such as respect, commitment, and discipline.
How did the Club Scherma Taranto honor Camilo Bory Barrientos?
The club organized a heartfelt tribute where students formed a guard of honor with raised swords as his coffin was carried through, reflecting their deep respect and admiration for him.
What achievements did Camilo Bory Barrientos have in his fencing career?
Camilo Bory Barrientos participated in 82 official competitions, winning 27 national medals and 42 international ones, including a gold medal at the World University Championships in Buffalo.