Michael Moktresov, who owns the New York Fencing Academy in Port Washington, just got a little more popular now that he successfully coached Romain Cannon to win Olympic gold.

While Cannon isn't a Long Islander, Moktresov is. He lives in Woodmere and has worked with Cannon since he was 12 years old.

"When he started, he was a regular kid," says Moktresov. "He wasn't super strong or super-fast. There was nothing specific to tell about him to say OK an Olympic champion walking in the gym."

Alan Temiryaev was Cannon's former training partner. Temiryaev says Romain worked hard. He also says don't be surprised if another gold medalist comes out of the Port Washington club.

"Definitely sets the bar high and now it makes me feel like I have to do it so see you guys in 2028 LA," says Temiryaev.