Part 3/9:

The Comeback: Returning to the Olympics After a Break

One of the most remarkable aspects of Torres’s story is her comeback to Olympic level swimming after a hiatus, motherhood, and reaching her 30s. After retiring from swimming in 2000, she immersed herself in motivational speaking and business ventures but always retained her love for swimming.

Her return began with a casual decision—to participate in a meet just three weeks after giving birth to her daughter at age 39. Her initial efforts did not target Olympic ambitions but to stay in shape during her pregnancy. Her physical resilience shone through, as she trained discreetly, sneaking workouts when her doctor initially advised rest.