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Gwendolyn Lenna Torrence (born June 12, 1965) is a retired American sprinter and Olympic champion. She was born in Decatur, Georgia. She attended Columbia High School and the University of Georgia. She was offered a scholarship because of her athletic abilities, but she said she wasn't interested because she initially wanted to become a beautician. From the persuasion from her coaches and family, she chose to enroll to the University of Georgia.
In the early 1990s, Gwen Torrence was one of the best sprinters in the world, winning five Olympic medals, and three gold.
Torrence won medals at the Summer Olympics, Outdoor & Indoor World Championships, Pan American Games, Goodwill Games, and World University Games.
In 1988, Torrence achieved a tie with Evelyn Ashford in the 55 m race at the U.S. national indoor championships. She also had many battles both on the track and in the press with Florence Griffith Joyner.
In the 200 m at the 1995 World Championships, she was disqualified for stepping out of her lane after finishing first. This left her idol, Merlene Ottey, to be promoted to first place.
In 2000 she was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.
Transition to Hairstyling
After retiring from competitive athletics, Torrence fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a hairstylist. In 2010, she opened her own salon, Bangz & Tanglez, in Lithonia, Georgia. While she cherishes her Olympic medals, she prefers to keep them displayed at the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, focusing her energy on her salon and family life.
Personal Life
Torrence is married to Manley Waller, a fellow sprinter from the University of Georgia. The couple has a son, Manley Waller III. Despite her public success, Torrence has expressed a desire for privacy, preferring a life away from the limelight.
Legacy
Gwen Torrence's journey from a young girl with dreams of hairstyling to an Olympic champion and successful entrepreneur exemplifies resilience and dedication. Her story continues to inspire individuals balancing personal aspirations with professional achievements.
