#USA #Peter Westbrook Foundation #Tbilisi #Lauren Scruggs #Kasia Nixon

Celebrating Excellence: USA's Fencers at the 2025 Championships

The Peter Westbrook Foundation (PWF) takes immense pride in announcing that two of its standout athletes, Lauren Scruggs and Kasia Nixon, are competing for Team USA at the prestigious 2025 Senior World Fencing Championships from July 22 to 30 in Tbilisi, Georgia. This event showcases the best fencers globally, and with both athletes being prominent figures in American fencing, their participation is a significant honor for the Foundation and the nation.

Meet the Athletes

Lauren Scruggs

Lauren Scruggs is no stranger to the spotlight in the world of fencing. Ranked #3 in the U.S. and #9 globally in Senior Women's Foil, she is a formidable competitor with an impressive track record. A celebrated Olympic gold and silver medalist in 2024, Scruggs has had an outstanding performance in the 2025 season. Her stellar achievements include capturing individual bronze and leading the U.S. team to gold at the Pan-American Championships in Brazil. Additionally, she played a crucial role in securing a team silver at the World Cup in Canada and clinching individual gold at the North American Cup earlier in January. Furthermore, while representing Harvard University, she earned individual silver and team gold at the NCAA Championships. With a history of eight medals from Junior and Cadet World Championships, including five golds, Lauren continues to break barriers for young athletes, particularly women and athletes of color.

Kasia Nixon

Kasia Nixon, competing in Senior Women's Épée, arrives in Tbilisi with a national ranking of #2 and #18 worldwide, embodying strength and resilience. Her impressive season features individual bronze and team gold at the Pan-American Championships in Brazil, alongside a Grand Prix bronze in Colombia. Nixon's contributions were vital as Team USA secured team bronze at the World Cup in China. Domestically, she shined at the Summer Nationals in Milwaukee, claiming silver and being crowned the Division 1 National Champion. With four medals from previous Junior and Cadet World events, including a silver and three bronzes, she is recognized as a leading force in American épée.

A Message of Support

As both Lauren and Kasia represent Team USA, Bob Cottingham, CEO of PWF and a former U.S. Olympian, expressed, “Watching Lauren and Kasia compete on the world stage is a powerful reminder of what's possible when talent meets opportunity. They embody the values that Peter built this Foundation on: excellence, resilience, and purpose. Their success not only inspires the next generation of athletes at PWF, but also reflects the strength and potential of our entire community.”

The Peter Westbrook Foundation: Empowering Future Generations

Established in 1991 by six-time Olympian Peter Westbrook, the PWF is dedicated to using fencing as a means to empower young individuals from underserved communities in New York City. By providing mentorship, academic support, and elite athletic training, the Foundation has nurtured numerous Olympians and world-class athletes, instilling values of success both in sports and life.

Join the Celebration

As Lauren and Kasia take the stage in Tbilisi, the Peter Westbrook Foundation invites everyone to rally behind them. Their journey not only represents individual triumphs but also symbolizes the collective spirit and achievements of their community. Stay updated on their progress and join the celebration of their remarkable journey by visiting peterwestbrook.org or following PWF on social media @peterwestbrookfoundation.

In conclusion, Scruggs and Nixon’s participation in the world championships is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the supportive community that fosters such excellence. It is a thrilling time for these athletes and the Peter Westbrook Foundation as they continue to inspire and uplift future generations through sports.