Pajon's father, Carlos Mario, competed in BMX at the 1995 World Championships. Her older brother Miguel also participated at the junior national level. Her husband, Vincent Pelluard, has represented both France and Colombia in BMX.

Achievements and Awards

Pajon has an impressive list of accolades. She became the first Colombian athlete to win two Olympic gold medals, securing victories in the BMX individual race at the 2012 and 2016 Olympic Games. In 2019, she received the Changemaker Award from Panam Sports Organization.

She was named Best Female Athlete of the 2019 Pan American Games by the Association of National Olympic Committees. In 2013, Coldeportes named her Athlete of the Year. Additionally, she received the Cross of the Order of Boyaca in 2012 for her sporting achievements.

Challenges and Injuries

Pajon has faced several injuries throughout her career. In May 2018, she injured her left knee's anterior cruciate ligament and medial collateral ligament, sidelining her for the rest of the year. She returned to competition in February 2019.

Earlier in 2018, she was affected by glandular fever. At the 2012 Olympic Games in London, she competed with two injured tendons in her hand. In March 2012, a shoulder injury at the World Supercross Cup event kept her out for about two months.

Coaching and Training

Pajon trains under national coach German Medina. Her dedication to training has been evident throughout her career, contributing to her numerous successes on the track.

Philosophy and Motivation

Pajon lives by the motto: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams," a quote by US politician Eleanor Roosevelt. This philosophy has driven her to achieve great heights in BMX.

Track Honour and Charity Work

A BMX track in Medellin was named after Pajon in 2015. She won gold at this track during the 2016 World Championships. In 2013, she established Fundacion Mariana Pajon to provide better opportunities for Colombian youth through sport.

The United Nations Development Programme appointed her as a champion of peace and sustainable development due to her charitable efforts.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Pajon aims to continue competing at high levels while also expanding her charitable work through Fundacion Mariana Pajon. Her commitment to both sport and community development remains unwavering.

Residing in Colombia with her husband Vincent Pelluard, Pajon is fluent in English and Spanish. Her journey from a young girl inspired by family to a celebrated athlete is a testament to her dedication and passion for BMX.