Marlies Mejias Garcia (cub)

From the streets of Cuba to the world’s biggest stages, Marlies Mejias Garcia is a force to be reckoned with. From an early age, she discovered her love for cycling and quickly rose through the ranks at a government-sponsored cycling academy, where her exceptional talent was undeniable. Combining her athletic prowess with academic dedication, she earned a degree in Sports Exercise Physiology from the prestigious Geraldo Cordova Cardin University in Cuba—a testament to her relentless drive for excellence.

Marlies has built a career defined by speed, strategy, and sheer determination. She has proudly represented Cuba on the global stage, competing in both the 2012 London Olympics and 2016 Rio Olympics, proving herself as one of the country’s most dominant cyclists. But she’s far from done—her sights are now firmly set on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where she aims to add another chapter to her already illustrious career.

Now based in Salem, Virginia, Marlies expertly balances family life with her relentless pursuit of greatness, training and competing at the highest level while also inspiring and mentoring the next generation. As a coach with KX3 Performance Coaching, she shares her knowledge and experience, shaping the future of the sport with the same passion that has fueled her own success.

A powerhouse on both the road and track, Marlies embodies perseverance, ambition, and the unbreakable spirit of a champion. Keep your eyes on her—because she’s just getting started!

What inspired you to become a bike racer?

Yoanka Gonzalez was my inspiration for being an Olympic Games.

Who is an inspiration to you in your life, both on and off the bike?

My mother is my inspiration.

The best thing about being a bike racer is?

Winning races after my team has worked so hard. I also love inspiring junior athletes.

What is your biggest accomplishment on the bike?

2012 and 2016 Olympic team member finishing 7th place both times.

Favorite place you’ve raced your bike and why?

I love racing in USA because there are so many criteriums!

Favorite cross training or off-season activity?

I love going to the gym and working with a trainer.

Best tip for a new bike racer?

You have to be extremely disciplined.

What are one or two things that you do daily that are the key to your success?

Train hard and rest hard.

If you could spend 10 days anywhere, where would it be?

My house Cuba.

Favorite things to do off the bike:

- Baking with my daughter
- Decorating my home
- Working in my garden
- Cooking Cuban food for my friends
- Reading

Top 5 warmup/pre-race songs:

1. Yuridia - Lo que son las cosas
2. Matisse - Si fuera fácil
3. Yuridia - Te equivocaste
4. Marcela Gandara  - Supe que me amabas
5. Lilly Goodman - nadie me dijo

Favorite things to eat:

1. Rice, beans and chicken
2. Pasta
3. Cadbury's Milk Chocolate
4. Fresh fruit

Tell us something about yourself that people may not know

I love to organize things!