Esperanza Alzona’s YMCA StoryA Gold Medal Story

With more than 10,000 members, you never know who you might meet at the YMCA of Frederick County. From lifelong members to one time program participants, the Y has a place for everyone. And if you get the chance to meet Esperanza, then you will have met Frederick County’s most recent gold medalist.

Esperanza and her family have been YMCA members since 1994, when they moved to their home in Downtown Frederick. Her family participated in swim lessons, camps, and other programs at the Y. Over the years, her family trained at the Y for swim team, worked as life guards and swim instructors. Although her boys have grown and moved away, Esperanza and her husband still visit the Y almost daily.

Her daily visits help Esperanza stay in shape for a passion of hers – fencing. Weight lifting, yoga, and cross-training are all built into her routine to help her prepare for fencing competitions. Most recently, Esperanza competed at the Pan American Veteran Fencing Championships in Lima, Peru. At the international competition, Esperanza earned a bronze medal in the Saber Team event and gold medal in Veteren Women’s Foil – making her the official Pan American Champion in that event!

For Esperanza and her family, the YMCA has been a place that has helped to keep her family healthy and physically active.

“Our children have learned and continued to lead healthy, active lifestyles. We were also grateful to be able to continue working out and swimming laps in the pool even during COVID. The Y continues to update, maintain, and improve the equipment and facilities. The front desk and staff are unfailingly friendly, courteous, and helpful.”

Be sure to tell Esperanza Congratulations if you see her at the Downtown Y!