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Vianne Xia “Damba” Guieb: A Young Athlete’s Journey from Pushbike to Running Champion

Introduction

In the picturesque town of Pozorrubio, the Guieb family nurtures a budding sports star, Vianne Xia “Damba” Guieb. At just six years old, Damba has already shown remarkable prowess in both pushbike competitions and running events. Supported by her parents, Jimerick and Harlene Guieb, her journey from pushbike enthusiast to running champion is nothing short of inspiring.

Early Beginnings in Pushbike

Damba’s athletic journey began at the tender age of two when she discovered the joy of riding a pushbike. Her parents, keen to keep her active and away from excessive screen time, encouraged her passion. Damba quickly became adept at pushbiking, participating in various competitions wherever they could find one. Her parents saw potential in her, fostering her talent with unwavering support.

Introduction to Running

As Damba’s pushbike competitions became more frequent, her parents decided to introduce running as part of her training regimen. In preparation for her National Race in December, she began running 800 meters every morning, gradually increasing to 2 kilometers. The training paid off when Damba emerged victorious in the 5-year-old female category and the open age female category at the National Race in Cebu last December. This success led her to compete in an International Race in Malaysia in May.

First Running Event in Baguio

December was a pivotal month for Damba. Not only did she excel in the National Race, but she also participated in her first running event, the Baguio Bayani Marathon. She tackled the 5K distance, marking the beginning of her interest in running. Damba’s reason for loving the sport was refreshingly simple: she enjoyed the food and chocolates available at the water stations.

A Notable Race at City Clark Marathon

For Jimerick and Harlene, one of the most memorable races was the City Clark Marathon. Damba’s goal was to beat her previous personal record (PR) of 1 hour and 2 minutes. Despite their modest expectations, Damba’s competitive spirit shone through. Not only did she finish the race, but she also secured a podium spot, showcasing her determination and talent.

Community Support and Training

The local running community in Pozorrubio played a crucial role in Damba’s training. Experienced runners offered guidance on what she should do before and after her runs. Damba’s father, Jimerick, initially started running to accompany her during training sessions. Over time, he developed a passion for the sport as well, turning it into a shared family activity. This support system was instrumental in Damba’s progress and enjoyment of running.

Aiming for Bigger Dreams

The Guieb family’s initial goal for Damba was to keep her away from excessive screen time by engaging her in pushbike and running activities. However, seeing the positive impact of sports on Damba, they began dreaming bigger. They hope that one day, Damba might become a national athlete. They are even considering enrolling her in swimming lessons to give her the opportunity to try triathlon.

Parental Support: The Key to Success

Jimerick and Harlene believe that parental support is crucial for nurturing a child’s potential in sports. They emphasize the importance of spending quality time with children, engaging in their activities, and providing encouragement. In a time when many children are glued to their screens, involving them in sports can have significant benefits. It helps children discover their strengths and fosters a sense of discipline and achievement.

Achievements and Future Goals

Despite being new to running, Damba has already achieved significant milestones. Beating her personal record in each race is a major accomplishment in itself. Moreover, she has secured podium finishes at the Nueva Ecija Marathon (4th place) and the Clark City Marathon (2nd place), remarkable achievements for someone so young. These accomplishments have fueled her passion for running and set the stage for future successes.

Vianne Xia “Damba” Guieb’s journey from a two-year-old pushbike enthusiast to a six-year-old running champion is a testament to the power of parental support and community involvement. Her story is a reminder of the importance of nurturing children’s interests and encouraging them to pursue their passions. With her parents’ unwavering support and her own determination, Damba is poised for a bright future in sports, embodying the spirit of a true champion.