Brazilian fencer Bia Bulcão has officially secured her spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after a stellar performance at the Americas Zonal Qualifier held in San José, Costa Rica. The qualification marks her second Olympic appearance and reestablishes Brazil’s presence in international fencing just months before the Games.
With her victory in the women’s foil category, Bia becomes the first Brazilian fencer to qualify for Paris 2024, and the only South American woman to secure a spot through the continental route.
Dominance in Costa Rica
Bulcão entered the qualifier as a top seed and lived up to expectations, defeating athletes from Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia without losing a single bout. In the final, she overcame Canada’s Alanna Goldie in a tense 15–12 duel, showcasing her trademark agility, timing, and mental resilience.
After securing the final point, Bia raised her foil in triumph, tears in her eyes. In her post-match interview, she said:
“I’ve fought for this every day since Tokyo. This ticket to Paris means redemption — and a new beginning.”
A Veteran with Unfinished Business
Bia Bulcão, 30, is a veteran of the sport and one of Brazil’s most accomplished fencers. She competed at the Rio 2016 Olympics and narrowly missed out on Tokyo 2020 due to injury and qualification complications.
A Pan American bronze medalist and South American champion, Bia is known for her graceful technique and competitive intelligence. Her training base is split between São Paulo and Milan, where she spars with top-tier European athletes.
Her qualification gives Brazil a much-needed boost in a sport that has struggled with visibility and investment. The Brazilian Fencing Confederation (CBE) has already confirmed that she will lead a revamped team campaign for Paris.
Eyes on a Historic Finish
Brazil has yet to win an Olympic medal in fencing, but Bia’s recent form and international experience offer hope for a breakthrough. With consistent results on the FIE World Cup circuit and a deep understanding of her main rivals, Bia is expected to be a dark horse contender in Paris.
Her preparation will include:
- Training camps in France and Italy with Olympic-level coaches.
- Technical refinement with a focus on late-bout endurance.
- Mental performance work in partnership with Brazil’s Olympic Committee.
- Participation in pre-Olympic test events at the venue in Saint-Denis.
Impact Beyond the Piste
Bia has also become a vocal advocate for gender equity and representation in sport. She regularly visits public schools to talk about perseverance, and leads digital campaigns encouraging young girls to try fencing.
Her Instagram post after qualification read:
“I didn’t come from a traditional fencing family. I didn’t grow up in Europe. But I had belief, and I had support. If I can make it, so can the next girl.”
As a result, fencing clubs across Brazil reported a 25% increase in female inquiries the week after her qualification, according to CBE.
Conclusion: A New Blade in Brazil’s Olympic Story
Bia Bulcão’s qualification for Paris 2024 is more than a personal achievement — it’s a statement of resilience, progress, and possibility for Brazilian fencing. With experience, determination, and a nation behind her, she heads to France ready to fight not just for points — but for history.