Mary Vongsaga was born in Elgin, IL, but relocated to Nashville with her family at a young age.  Her father is originally from Vientiane while her mother is from Savannakhet. She had some friends who were into bodybuilding and began developing an interest in the sport but was in a relationship at the time with a boyfriend who didn’t support the idea. After they broke up she began working out and began meeting more people who were involved in the sport.   “They were talking about competing so I decided to give it a shot and fell in love with the process,” said Mary.  

Mary began competing in 2016 and during her inaugural year participated in five competitions over a six-month span. “Don't try this at home!  As hard as it was, I liked the challenge of always improving,” said Mary. Mary last competed at the 2020 NPC National Championships in Orlando, Florida. 

Mary does freelance interior design work in addition to tending bar on Nashville's Broadway, which is famous for its country music venues. She is the niece of professional bodybuilder Ko Chandetka.