Daryl Homer: New York City, New York
Olympic fencing team member Daryl Homer might have been born in the Virgin Islands, but he calls New York City home with a vengeance. Daryl loves the complex life of New York—from its cultural offerings to its variety of ethnic restaurants. A resident of the Bronx, Homer didn’t even leave the city for college, instead electing to attend the St. John’s University campus in Queens. And it was New York City that started him fencing, namely the Manhattan Fencing Club which he represents nationally. Homer started at age 10 within the walls of the New York Fencer’s Club under the guidance of six-time Olympian Peter Westbrook before learning the saber with the famed handler Yury Gelman. Homer, ranked number one in the United States for his fencing skills, said he worked hard to become first in the sport after an unimpressive childhood with the foils and now claims, “Fencing has shaped the way I think about life.” Daryl, who recently turned 22, is in his way to London and vows to enjoy every moment of his Olympic dream.
For more on Daryl Homer, visit DarylHomer.com and follow the Olympian on Facebook and Twitter too!
The Concierge Questionnaire: Daryl Homer, Olympic Fencer
What is your favorite word to describe New York City? There are so many awesome things to see and do in NY. Amazing people, inspiring stories, overwhelming architecture, so much diversity, and that’s only scratching the surface!
What word best reflects the people of New York City? Getters. NY gets it done. We are always looking for the next opportunity. It’s true-if you can make it here you can make it anywhere.
What is the most creative, spiritual or emotional place in New York City?
Fort Tryon Park. Most New Yorkers don’t even know how beautiful it is. I’ve heard it described as the lungs of NYC. It’s also right on the Hudson River, placed on the highest point of the city, and near the George Washington Bridge.
Fort Tryon Park: Riverside Drive To Broadway, West 192 Street To Dyckman Street
Hours: Sunrise-sunset
What is your favorite outdoor activity in New York City? Shopping. New York is one of the fashion capitals of the world. Most styles were cultivated here. I love NY because people are free to dress as they do. It’s not uncommon for someone to stop you and compliment your style.
What is your favorite indoor activity in New York City? The melting pot means we have many different cooks in many different pots. Where else can you find Mexican style sushi?
What is your favorite sound or noise in New York City?
Subway rumbling below me. We spend an absurd amount of time on the subways, so it becomes semi-calming to hear and feel the subtle Subway vibrations.
What is your favorite smell or taste in New York City?
Magnolia Bakery.
Please visit Magnolia Bakery for detailed information on their 5 NYC locales, as well as Los Angeles, Chicago and Dubai too!
What drink best reflects New York City?
Long Island Ice Tea, there’s a bit of everything in NY.
Long Island Iced Tea’s popular version mixes equal parts vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and triple sec with 1½ parts sour mix and a splash of cola.
What song or type of music best reflects New York City?
Jay-Z's "Empire State of Mind." Mixing Sinatra’s class with a hustler’s mentality!
”Yea I'm out that Brooklyn, now I'm down in TriBeCa
right next to Deniro, but I'll be hood forever
I'm the new Sinatra, and... since I made it here
I can make it anywhere…”
If Heaven were New York City, what would God say to a visitor when they arrive at the Pearly Gates? "New York, New York" in a Frank Sinatra voice!
Daryl Homer: New York City, New York • New York City, New York • Phone: ***
