Written by: Marianne Ortiz
Since the age of ten, Anais Galán has embraced athletics as more than a sport, it has been her calling. At just 13, she was already representing Puerto Rico internationally in Trinidad and Tobago, competing in the 800 and 1500 meters. Over the years, she continued to defend the Island’s colors in numerous track and cross-country competitions, including senior-level Central American events.
Her journey, however, has been defined by resilience. At 17, while beginning her collegiate career on scholarship at Kansas State University, Anais suffered a heart attack that reshaped her path. She underwent two surgical procedures and committed to a six-month recovery before gradually returning to competition. In her first University Games after surgery, she won three events in a single day, an extraordinary comeback that earned her the nickname she still carries today: “Iron Heart.”
After dedicating years to family life and overcoming additional medical challenges, Anais returned to competitive running just two years ago following medical advice. This time, her goal was not to replicate the past, but to challenge her own perceived limits.
At the renowned San Blás Half Marathon, one of Puerto Rico’s most demanding races, she completed her first 21K in 1:39, surpassing her personal goal of 1:40. She placed second in her age category (35–40) and ranked among the top ten Puerto Rican women overall, competing alongside international athletes.
Yet beyond the finish time and rankings, her greatest victory was mental. She broke through the distance barrier that had once defined her limits. “I had to learn to love the process,” she shared, recognizing that this chapter is not about performing exactly as before, but about embracing growth, perseverance, and joy in the journey.
Anais’ story reflects discipline, strength, and determination, qualities she also embodies daily in her role as Recruitment Officer at CTS’s Barceloneta branch. “Iron Heart” is not simply a nickname; it is a reflection of who she is.
At CTS, we proudly congratulate Anais on her remarkable achievement at the San Blás Half Marathon and wish her continued success as she works toward completing all five races in the Puerto Rico Half Marathon Challenge. We are confident she will continue to make her mark, both on and off the track
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