Let Me Introduce Myself

My name is Marina Ibáñez, I’m 17 years old, and while I was born in Barcelona, Spain, I moved to Brookline, Boston (USA) at a very young age. I spent most of my childhood there until I returned to Spain at 15—life has its twists and turns. I now live in Corvera, Asturias, where I’m continuing my studies. But if you’re here, you’re probably wondering: What is such a young girl doing on a personal website? Well, follow along, and I’ll tell you!

During my time in the U.S., I had the opportunity to attend the Ron Burton Training Village (RBTV) in Hubbardston, Massachusetts. There, I was introduced to four core values that have shaped who I am: love, peace, patience, and—above all—humility. It was there that I realized not everyone is born with the same opportunities, but at some point in life, we can choose to create those opportunities for others. Through RBTV, I grew rooted in friendship, love for my family, and a strong sense of solidarity.

It was also at this camp that I received basic aviation training and discipline, which I first applied in the sport of fencing. I’ve come to understand that our life journey should aim toward complete personal development. And to achieve that, you need to be in balance and harmony with your goals. How do you get there? Well, they say all roads lead to Rome—mine led to sports.

Daily training became a part of my life and helped me feel connected to the world. To give you a glimpse of my routine, I even filmed a video showing my early morning workouts—waking up at 5:00 AM to run six miles!

I also participated in a pre-med program at Harvard University, and just a year ago, I completed a pre-university law course at ESADE in Barcelona.

Currently, I’m enrolled in the International Baccalaureate Program at San Fernando School (Avilés, Spain). In my free time, I train with Corvera Rowing Club. Carrying with me both my passion for sport and the spirit of solidarity, I decided to launch a personal project: “3 Ergometers for the Rowing Club of Equatorial Guinea.” This initiative reflects not only a goal but a journey made up of every step I’ve taken around the world.

I owe special thanks to all the people who helped me adjust to life back in Spain. Each of them carries a piece of me. I’d especially like to recognize San Fernando School and Corvera Rowing Club, where I’ve been warmly welcomed and fully supported.

I can’t forget my early beginnings in the U.S. either, where I studied at St. Mary’s School (Brookline). That’s where I first experienced basketball, taekwondo, and even piano lessons. I even placed third in a math competition! If I had to pinpoint the moment when my connection to sport began—it was there.

However, the most transformative years of my life began in 2020, when I started taking a variety of courses and exploring different sports. I eventually discovered the one that became my true passion—rowing. And that’s what led to the initiative I mentioned earlier.

But it hasn’t been all sport—I've also focused on academic development, including:

• Nonverbal and Unconscious Communication (Princesa 81, European Institute of Behavioral Sciences & YOS Coaching, 2020 & 2024)

• Criminal Investigation Techniques (Boston Leadership Institute, 2022)

• Creative Writing (Boston University, 2022)

• MED Science (Harvard University, 2023)

• Law Course (ESADE, Barcelona, 2024)

At Brookline High School, I expanded my athletic experience to include fencing and track, and it was there that I truly fell in love with rowing.

Before returning to Spain, I spent several summers at Ron Burton Training Village, where I was deeply enriched by experiences, valuable teachings, and visits to major companies like Amazon, Bose, and Ocean Spray. But what impacted me the most were the community events held there—nights that celebrated individuals making a difference, such as Robert Kraft (2022) and Arthur T. Demoulas (2023). These experiences awakened in me a sense of empathy and a deep desire to listen, support, and help others.

Alongside my studies at San Fernando School and my daily training with Corvera Rowing Club, I continue to grow. That support has helped me move forward—with a smile—and it’s that same smile I want to see on others. That’s what “3 Ergometers for the Rowing Club of Equatorial Guinea” is all about.

Rowing has become not just a sport, but a purpose in my life. It fills me in every way. Every physical challenge has also strengthened me mentally. I’ve found balance in every test and power in every struggle. Rowing isn’t just a passion—it’s a way of life, and the driving force I needed to reach far and make a difference. It inspires me to keep exploring the world—especially those corners where resources are scarce. Rowing is a part of who I am, and I want everyone to be part of that journey.

Through this passion, I’ve overcome pain, discovered motivation, and found the strength to break through limits.