Cadet Champion
Youlong Lin Dominates Cadet Foil
The Los Angeles fencer navigated a field of 306 to take gold, solidifying his status as one of the country's top-ranked young foilists.
USA Fencing · Sep 27, 2026 · 3 min read
Youlong Lin has proven his national standing with a decisive win at the Summer Nationals, adding to an impressive run of recent titles.
When Youlong Lin steps onto the strip, the outcome is rarely in doubt. At the Summer Nationals and July Challenge on July 1st, he faced 305 other fencers in the Cadet Men's Foil event, yet he emerged as the undisputed winner. It was a masterclass in precision and speed.
Lin, who trains at the Los Angeles International Fencing Center, has been on a tear recently. Including his win at the Summer Nationals, he has secured victory in five major junior events since March 2026. His trajectory is steep; despite only having three seasons of competitive experience, he has already racked up 13 titles and 35 podiums.
His national rankings confirm what anyone watching the bouts can see. Lin is currently ranked No. 2 in the U17 age group and No. 7 in the U20s. He is also breaking into the senior rankings at No. 49, a difficult climb for any teenager.
The Cadet Men's Foil event is often a preview of future collegiate stars, and Lin is clearly at the head of that pack. His A26 rating underscores the technical skill he has developed in such a short time. Every bout he wins serves as a building block for his growing reputation.
Fencing is a sport of inches and seconds, where a single misstep can end a tournament. Lin's ability to remain composed under the pressure of a 306-person field highlights his mental toughness. With his current momentum, the rest of the season holds much promise for the Los Angeles native.