Before transitioning to the Olympic 470 class, Lara built a strong professional sailing career, winning titles such as the 2016 Farr 40 North American Championship, Key West Race Week in the C&C 30, and the Etchells Pacific Coast Championship. She also competed on the international match racing circuit, placing 3rd at the Women’s Match Race World Championship.

After competing in Tokyo with Nikole Barnes, Lara teamed up with Stu McNay for the Paris Games, representing Team USA after winning the 2024 Olympic Trials. Off the water, she has also worked as a drone pilot, copywriter, and photographer