Mangrobang follows in footsteps of her idol

Filipino triathlete Kim Mangrobang finishes strong to win the gold in the women’s triathlon at the 30th SEA Games in Subic, Zambales. -inquirer/grig c. montegrande

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT—Kim Mangrobang witnessed how Alessandra Araullo was cheered and loved by the crowd despite her silver-medal output in the 2005 Southeast Asian Games.

Mangrobang returned to the scene of Araullo’s silver feat on Friday and conquered her foes for that glimmering Southeast Asian Games gold medal around her neck.

“I intentionally didn’t go to school that day so I could watch her (Sandra) on television,’’ said Mangrobang.

From that point on, the then 14-year-old Mangrobang decided she would become somebody that a nation craving for sports heroes would adore.
“It wasn’t easy and I had my share of failures while I tried to reach my goal. I’m finally here, but I’m looking forward to bigger races ahead,’’ said Mangrobang, who retained the title she first won in the 2017 Kuala Lumpur Games.

Up next for Mangrobang will be the rare chance to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Ranked No. 104 in the world with the highest points among Filipinos, Mangrobang will continue training in Portugal early next year.–INQ