Annia Portuondo Hatch Wooten – what a star!
That long name has a long and very impressive story to go with it.
Wendy met Annia after receiving a call from the legendary Muriel Grossfeld. She said that Annia needed help as she was making a comeback for the Olympic Games. Says Wendy: “I knew her then-husband, the wonderful coach Alan Hatch, so of course I would do whatever I could. As it turned out, they did not need my help!”
Anna went on to make the 2003 World Championship Team – but suffered a devastating knee injury. Lo and behold, she came back to win the team and individual silver medal at the 2004 Olympics on her signature event – vault.
After the Olympics, Annia had a great career as a fashion designer.
“I am so grateful that Annia and Alan came to one of my foundation’s galas and Annia performed on beam – she was gracious and gave great encouragement to the students in both English and Spanish,” says Wendy.
Read about Annia’s incredible journey here.
Watch a video of Annia shortly after being named to the 2004 U.S. Olympic team.