Sport: There Is No Danger

At the world fencing championships in Stockholm last week, Mogens Luchow, Denmark's world épée champion, met a tough Finnish army captain named Ilmari Vartia. Luchow parried Vartia's attack, thrust sharply and powerfully in riposte. The stiff, three-cornered blade plunged into the Finn's chest. "There is no danger," insisted Vartia as the blade was eased out of the wound, its protective tip still in place. A moment later, with blood staining his white fencer's jacket, Captain Vartia slipped lifeless to the floor.

...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!