Caracas, Aug 15 : Fencer Ruben Limardo has been honoured by Venezuela's National Assembly for the gold medal he won at the London Olympic Games.

The lawmakers began the congressional session Tuesday by formally recognizing Limardo and the delegation of athletes who represented Venezuela at this year's Summer Games.

"I am very grateful for the recognition. I always dreamed of winning an Olympic medal," Limardo told the full session of the legislature.

His uncle and coach, Ruperto Gascon, thanked the Venezuelan people for celebrating Limardo's victory and the authorities who provided their help to the athlete "in one way or another".

"This is Venezuela's triumph and I would like this to repeat itself in all our country's sports," added Gascon.

Last week, President Hugo Chavez presented Limardo, Venezuela's first Olympic gold medalist in 44 years, with a replica of the sword of South American liberator Simon Bolivar.

© IANS