RIO DE JANEIRO- Palau’s Marina Toribiong, who this week managed to advance to the semifinals in the women's kayak single 200-meter race before being eliminated, is scheduled to take on her next Olympic challenge this evening, Guam time.
Toribiong, who trains at home in Palau without a coach, is scheduled to compete in the women's kayak single 500-meter race, which begins 10:05 a.m. in Rio De Janeiro, or 11:05 p.m. Guam time.
Toribiong, who was surprised to advance to the semis in the shorter race, said the 500-meter race is more difficult. She said she still struggles to balance herself in the kayak — she's used to paddling an outrigger canoe, which is more stable — and to have enough endurance for a longer distance. It becomes a struggle at the 250-meter mark, she said.
It's not her strongest event, she said, but she is approaching it with a positive attitude.
"I’m looking forward to it. It’s going to be some tough competition, but I’m going to paddle my heart out and do my best,” she said. “It’s an amazing opportunity to be here, and I’m blessed."
Toribiong, 22, is her nation's first female Olympic kayaker.
Jerick Sablan PDN News
Last Modified on 17/08/2016 11:43
