[4] Mardones had started at the Grey Rock Tennis Club in Austin, Texas, learning there about her selection for the Chilean team.
Her achievements garnered awards, including recognition for inspiring others and a Golden Condor for the best Paralympic Tennis performance in 2014.
Attempting field athletics to reduce travel, she feared the injury's impact on wheelchair performance but not on javelin, discus, or shot put.
[7] In 2019, Mardones participated in the Parapan American Games in Lima, where she won a silver medal and set a record in her category.
[10] In 2021, Mardones achieved gold in the discus throw final at the Tunisia Grand Prix with a record of 17.50 meters.
[12][13] While she was considered to participate in the javelin throw at the Paralympic Games, she decided not to do so due to physical discomfort and the recommendation of specialists.