PinoyBuilt — Stories of Filipino America

A Fil-Am teen in Texas, ranked number 20 in the world taekwondo data ranking, is a contender to represent team USA at the 2024 Olympics. “I was bullied when I was younger so my mom put me in Taekwondo so I could defend myself,” says Kiel. “I just kept going since then, it keeps me healthy and disciplined.”

Paula Obanana Is A First Time Olympian Along with her partner, second-time Olympian Eva Lee , Fil-Am  Paula Obanana will compete in the Rio Olympic Games .  Obanana and Lee are currently ranked #31 in the latest world rankings . Obanana was born in  Dumaguete City, Philippines .  She immigrated to the United States with her family and lived in Arden Hills, Minnesota .  But due to her badminton, her family moved to California . The move paid off.  Obanana and Lee will play their first Olympic match Thursday night against South Korea. Go Team USA ! Paula has one uploaded video on her YouTube channel . Watch: Photo Shoot- Paula Obañana and Eva Lee " Road to Rio 2016 Olympics ". Paula Lynn Obanana competes for Team USA Badminton.