Mariel Zagunis wins in Tianjin

Mariel Zagunis (left) in action at the 2009 World Championship. Photo S.Timacheff/FencingPhotos.com

Mariel Zagunis (USA, left) won another round in her rivalry with Ukrainian sabre sensation Olga Kharlan by taking the win against Kharlan 15-13 in the gold medal bout of the Tianjin Women’s Sabre Grand Prix event in Tianjin, China.

Zagunis remains firmly entrenched in the #1 spot in the FIE world rankings. Since winning the 2009 World Championship (by a decisive margin over Kharlan), Kharlan has made a run on Zagunis’ #1 spot, but has been unable to overtake the Olympic champion.

Finishing in bronze medal position were Socha (POL) and Diatchenko (RUS).

The US women’s sabre team will compete next in the team portion of the grand prix event.