From Los Angeles to Olympic Podium: Nick Itkin’s Training Earned Him Bronze Medal

At just 24 years old, Nick Itkin has already established himself as an experienced Olympian.

After securing two consecutive bronze medals at the Paris Olympics following Tokyo, the athlete from Los Angeles expressed that he approached his second Olympic with increased self-assurance. He attributed much of his confidence to his coach and father, Misha Itkin, as well as three-time Olympian Miles Chamley-Watson.

“I’m just going to be ready for that pressure because I know it’s going to come,” the younger Itkin said before heading to Paris. “As an athlete, I’m a lot more experienced than I was back then.”

Remaining humble was a quality that the from Palisades High School and Notre Dame University alum displayed during their preparation for major international athletic competitions.

“I prefer being a little bit of an underdog because I feel like everyone’s coming at you, you know?” Itkin, who also won two consecutive NCAA Championships at Notre Dame, said, adding he doesn’t want to think about his accomplishments too much. “I’m just focused on my training and making sure I’m in the best shape possible.”

According to Coach Itkin, the 34-year-old British American has been a source of inspiration for Itkin, who is a prominent figure in the world of fencing.

“He brings so much positive energy every time when you train,” the coach said. “It makes us more excited working with him.”

Nick Itkin, who acknowledges that he is still in the process of discovering his own style and routine, mentioned that he gained valuable insights from observing and spending nearly every day with Chamley-Watson during their training for the Paris Olympics.

“It’s been fun to just battle with him out here because it’s good for both of us to have someone at a high level to battle with,” the younger Itkin said, explaining the two Olympians are like brothers.

Itkin expressed his joy and satisfaction after securing his second bronze medal, emphasizing the long wait he endured for this achievement.

Source: NBC Los Angeles

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