Daryl Homer, a fencer for Team Toyota, won a silver medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio after years of hard work. Now, as he trains for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, he has come to realize that his athletic career doesn’t have to follow a linear path.
Homer is focused on changing his mindset and no longer seeing success as something finite. He believes in being excited about what’s next and challenging the notion of what is impossible. He understands the importance of embracing change and looking forward to new opportunities.
As a three-time U.S. Olympian in men’s sabre, Homer has competed in London, Rio, and Tokyo. His silver medal in Rio made him the first U.S. medalist in men’s sabre since 1984. Over the years, he has learned to appreciate his accomplishments and the rarity of competing in the Olympics. He is now working on celebrating his past achievements while simultaneously training for future milestones.
Homer understands the challenge of maintaining focus and motivation, especially in a mentally demanding sport like fencing. He draws inspiration from his favorite athletes who have reinvented themselves and found continued success throughout their careers. He acknowledges that fencing is like physical chess and requires self-awareness, emotional control, creativity, and bravery to take calculated risks.
Early Beginnings and Transformative “Firsts”
Homer was born in the U.S. Virgin Islands and moved to the Bronx with his family at the age of 5. He developed an interest in fencing and started taking lessons at the Peter Westbrook Foundation in Manhattan. The foundation, led by Olympians and former Olympians, including Homer’s mentor Peter Westbrook and fencer Keeth Smart, played a significant role in his development.
Initially drawn to basketball, Homer found fencing to be a natural fit for him. He began fencing at 11 years old and started taking the sport seriously a year later. He admits to balancing his athletic pursuits with simply being a kid, but eventually, he prioritized fencing and witnessed the results of his hard work. Beating an older fencer in a competition was a transformative experience that boosted his confidence and motivated him to continue pushing forward.
Building a Support System
Heading into his fourth Olympic cycle, Homer values the support system he has established. His family, fencing club, and local community provide him with the encouragement and assistance he needs to succeed. Homer appreciates the support he received from his neighborhood after the disappointment of not winning a medal in Tokyo. He also acknowledges the support he receives as part of Team Toyota, having formed close bonds with fellow athletes who joined the team around the same time.
Homer considers his teammates, the marketing department, and the entire organization as his extended family. Their unwavering support empowers him on his journey and motivates him to keep striving for excellence.