Mannie Zubia is the epitome of courage, leadership, and resilience. As an endurance athlete, he has accomplished what many with two kidneys might never dream of. Mannie has competed in numerous marathons and ultramarathons, including several grueling 100-mile races. Most recently, he tackled the legendary Leadville 100, a brutal 100-mile footrace through the rugged Colorado Rockies.
What makes his story remarkable isn’t just the miles he’s conquered but how he’s achieved them—with one kidney. Mannie’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, proving that with determination, grit, and a never-quit attitude, anything is possible.
A True Hero and Leader
Mannie’s strength goes beyond his athleticism. He’s a husband, a proud father of two boys, and a natural leader who embodies the values of service, sacrifice, and perseverance. His life story—from protecting his brothers-in-arms as an infantryman in Afghanistan to selflessly donating a kidney to save his mother’s life—paints a picture of a man who rises above challenges with honor and courage.
His ability to overcome adversity makes him a role model for anyone, whether they’re lacing up running shoes for the first time or striving for greatness in their own lives. Mannie’s journey is proof that the limits we perceive are often only mental—and they’re meant to be broken.
The Road to Leadville: From Sacrifice to Strength
Mannie’s journey began at 19, when he enlisted in the U.S. Army straight out of high school. Deployed to Afghanistan as an infantryman, Mannie faced the realities of war daily. Every step carried the risk of encountering an improvised explosive device (IED). On his very first day in-country, Mannie witnessed the devastating effects of an IED blast on an innocent family, leaving him to help clean up the aftermath. These experiences, though harrowing, built the foundation of Mannie’s resilience and leadership.
Years after his military service, Mannie’s strength was tested again when his mother’s health deteriorated. Without hesitation, he donated a kidney to save her life. For Mannie, the sacrifice was an act of love and duty, but it came with unexpected challenges.
The recovery process was grueling. For a month, Mannie was bedridden, his body struggling to adapt to life with one kidney. He felt trapped, questioning whether his quality of life would ever return. As a young man, he didn’t fully understand the depth of the recovery process, and the toll it took on his physical and mental health left him in a deep depression.
For a time, Mannie believed his life’s purpose was fulfilled by saving his mother, and he struggled with the thought that his journey was over. But he didn’t give up. Slowly, through sheer resilience, Mannie found his way back—not just to recovery but to a level of strength that has since propelled him into the world of endurance athletics.
Mannie Zubia Kidney Donor Endurance Athlete Leadville 100
From Veganism to Whole Foods: Fueling the Journey
Mannie’s path to peak performance has been one of trial and error, including his nutrition. For two years, he followed a vegan diet, hoping it would support his recovery and endurance goals. While he found some benefits, Mannie ultimately discovered that his body performed and recovered better with a whole foods-based diet that included meat.
By focusing on nutrient-dense, high-quality proteins and whole foods, Mannie optimized his performance, proving that the key to success is finding what works best for your individual needs. His journey underscores the importance of tailoring nutrition to your goals, rather than following one-size-fits-all advice.
Leading by Example
Today, at 34 years old, Mannie continues to inspire with his incredible athletic feats and his role as a devoted husband and father. His boys look up to him as a true example of what it means to be strong, both physically and emotionally. Mannie embodies a masculine energy rooted in leadership, showing his family—and the world—that perseverance and courage can overcome even the greatest obstacles.
As an endurance athlete with one kidney, Mannie is proof that physical challenges don’t define your limits. Instead, they provide the opportunity to rise above and achieve greatness.
Mannie Zubia Kidney Donor Endurance Athlete Leadville 100
Watch Mannie’s Story Unfold
To truly understand the magnitude of Mannie’s journey, watch the Leadville 100 documentary featuring his incredible race. His determination and grit will leave you inspired to push past your own limits.
Lessons from Mannie Zubia’s Journey
Mannie’s story is rich with inspiration for athletes and non-athletes alike:
- Overcoming adversity: Whether it’s donating a kidney or running 100 miles through the Rockies, Mannie shows that resilience is the key to success.
- The power of community: From the brotherhood of the military to the camaraderie of endurance sports, Mannie demonstrates the importance of surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you.
- Find what works for you: Mannie’s shift from veganism to a whole foods-based diet highlights the importance of listening to your body and fueling it in a way that supports your unique needs.
- Lead with strength and love: As a husband, father, and athlete, Mannie exemplifies leadership in every facet of life. His ability to balance sacrifice, resilience, and love makes him a true hero.
A Role Model for Us All
Mannie Zubia’s story is more than just a tale of athletic achievement; it’s a testament to the power of the human spirit. From his service in Afghanistan to his journey as a kidney donor and endurance athlete, Mannie inspires us to push beyond perceived limits and embrace the challenges that make us stronger.
At Asé Pure Naturals, we celebrate individuals like Mannie who embody resilience, courage, and the drive to succeed. Voted the best in the game by endurance athletes, our recovery products are designed to support the journey of breaking barriers and redefining what’s possible.
Whether you’re an ultramarathoner or just starting your fitness journey, let Mannie’s story remind you that greatness lies within all of us. With determination, the right support, and a belief in yourself, you too can rise above and achieve your dreams.
