Mangrobang sets sights on 2020, calls it her life’s ‘most important race’

Kim Marion Mangrobang is setting her sights at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and she’s ready to take on all the challenge to get to her goal.

“That’s the most important race of my life (Tokyo Olympics),” said Mangrobang, who is home for the Holidays after long-haul training in Portugal.

The charming 25-year-old, who won the Southeast Asian Games gold medal last August in Kuala Lumpur, is the country’s strongest bet at an Olympic medal in 2020 Games.

She is slated to compete in several Olympic qualifiers which starts right after the Subic International Triathlon in April.

“My parents have always pushed me to be the fastest and be the best that I can be,” said Mangrobang who hails from Santa Rosa, Laguna. “They push me to chase my dreams. And now I’m on it.”

After the Christmas season, Mangrobang is going back to Portugal to resume her training and competitions. Her work regimen involves training from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week. She gets one off day every other week.”

“It’s gruelling, but not as tough as spending 10 months away from home and my loved ones,” said Mangrobang. “Every step I take is one step closer to the Olympics.”

Mangrobang, who took on hold her fashion design study at School of Arts and fashion in Makati, is backed by San Miguel Corporation, Nike Sports and Pinerello Bike.

She started her triathlon career as a 9-year-old kid. “I have always been a lousy swimmer,” said Mangrobang.

She thus joined the Mako Sharks swim team of Alabang and from then she was discovered and offered to join the national youth team.

“I have always loved gold, the color, and chasing it (medal),” said Mangrobang. “All these hard work is all about pursuing that gold in the Olympics.”