Paola Sarabia: Spain’s Versatile Track and Field Star

Paola Sarabia, born on May 23, 1998, in Spain, has emerged as a dynamic figure in track and field, excelling in combined events, hurdles, and jumps. A heptathlete, long jumper, and hurdler, her career spans junior championships, national competitions, and international modeling. This biography traces her journey from grassroots athletics to becoming a multifaceted ambassador for the sport.

Early Career and Junior Achievements

Sarabia’s athletic promise surfaced early, culminating in her debut at the 2016 IAAF World U20 Championships in Bydgoszcz, Poland. Competing in the heptathlon’s long jump, she recorded a leap of 5.63 meters (+0.3 m/s), contributing to her overall score in the grueling seven-event discipline7. This appearance on the global junior stage marked her as a rising talent in Spain’s track and field pipeline.

Event Specialization and National Success

Heptathlon and Pentathlon Prowess

Sarabia’s versatility shines in combined events. At the 2025 Spanish Indoor Championships, she placed eighth in the pentathlon, showcasing proficiency across five disciplines: 60m hurdles, high jump, shot put, long jump, and 800m6. Her training emphasizes technical precision, particularly in the long jump and hurdles, where her explosive power and rhythm stand out.

Hurdles Dominance

Specializing in sprint hurdles, Sarabia competes in the 60m hurdles (indoor) and 100m/400m hurdles (outdoor). Her World Athletics profile lists her participation in the 300m hurdles and 4x400m relay, reflecting her adaptability and endurance1.

Long Jump Consistency

A cornerstone of her heptathlon performances, Sarabia’s long jump personal best of 5.63 meters (2016) has likely improved with experience. Her technique—characterized by a 12-step approach and controlled takeoff—balances speed and lift, critical for multisport success7.

International Competitions and Milestones

Sarabia has represented Spain in continental and global meets:

• 2016 World U20 Championships: Competed in heptathlon long jump, gaining early international exposure7.

• 2025 Spanish Indoor Championships: Ranked eighth in pentathlon, demonstrating sustained competitiveness6.

While major medals remain elusive, her consistency in national circuits underscores her role as a reliable scorer for Spanish teams.

Off-Track Pursuits and Personal Brand

Beyond athletics, Sarabia has cultivated a parallel career in modeling and fashion. As a stylist and heptathlete, she balances training with creative endeavors, collaborating with agencies like Fortes Sports Models and managing ventures such as @paolasb4 and @suis.co5. Her Instagram presence (@paolasarabia4) blends athletic rigor with lifestyle content, inspiring over 1,500 followers with insights into her dual passions45.

Challenges and Adaptations

Competing in combined events demands resilience. Sarabia’s transition from junior to senior ranks required refining technical elements, particularly in the shot put and high jump, to close gaps with elite competitors. Her ability to maintain form across diverse disciplines speaks to disciplined periodization and recovery strategies.

Legacy and Future Trajectory

At 27 (as of 2025), Sarabia represents a bridge between Spain’s established athletes and emerging talents. While her competitive focus remains on national championships, her influence extends beyond the track through modeling and mentorship. Future goals may include:

• Breaking 6,000 points in the heptathlon.

• Expanding her brand’s reach in sports fashion.

Conclusion

Paola Sarabia’s career epitomizes the modern athlete’s multidimensional identity. From heptathlon arenas to fashion studios, she embodies versatility, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. As she continues to compete and create, her story inspires aspiring athletes to pursue diverse passions without compromise.

For updates on her athletic and creative endeavors, follow her on Instagram (@paolasarabia4) and World Athletics profile.

Go Paola!