Carla-Mae Richards to Be Honored at 2025 Summer Nationals in Milwaukee

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Fencing will host a commemorative event to celebrate the life and legacy of Carla-Mae Richards, a visionary leader whose efforts helped shape modern fencing in the United States. 

The tribute will be held on July 1, 2025, from 5 to 6 p.m. in the pre-function space adjacent to the rooftop Baird Ballroom at the Baird Center — the same venue where this year’s Summer Nationals is taking place. Richards was inducted into the USA Fencing Hall of Fame in 2008, and this special gathering will precede the 2025 Hall of Fame and Awards Dinner.

Richards, who died this year at the age of 88, served as USA Fencing’s first full-time Executive Director from 1983 to 1994. During that time, she spearheaded the launch of the North American Cup (NAC) format, now a cornerstone of competitive fencing in the United States. 

By creating a structured national circuit, Richards provided fencers with regular, high-level tournaments that prepared them for success at both domestic and international events. Thanks to her vision, the NAC series continues to help athletes qualify for Summer Nationals and foster a thriving community of competitors.

Beyond her administrative achievements, Richards was a steadfast advocate for education, co-editing the Athlete Handbook for more than a decade. Her breadth of knowledge and dedication to the sport ensured that coaches, athletes and officials had consistent guidance in navigating the fencing landscape.

The July 1 ceremony is free to attend, with no pre-registration required. Carla-Mae’s family will be present, and all members of the fencing community are encouraged to come share memories and pay tribute to the pioneer whose groundbreaking contributions continue to shape USA Fencing today.