Born: 1968 (Fairmont, West Virginia)
Biography:
Mary Lou Retton (born January 24, 1968) is an American retired gymnast who made history in the sport. At the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, Retton became a household name by winning a gold medal in the individual all-around competition. Her remarkable performance also earned her two silver medals and two bronze medals, solidifying her status as one of the most celebrated athletes in the United States.
Retton’s gold medal win was groundbreaking, as she became the first American woman to claim the all-around gold medal in Olympic gymnastics. Her incredible achievements and charismatic personality captivated the nation, making her a beloved figure and inspiring countless aspiring gymnasts.
Born in Fairmont, West Virginia, on January 24, 1968, Mary Lou Retton discovered her passion for gymnastics at a young age. At just eight years old, she was inspired by watching Nadia Comăneci outshine Olga Korbut at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. Encouraged by this display of talent, Retton began training in her hometown under the guidance of coach Gary Rafaloski.
Recognizing her potential, Retton decided to move to Houston, Texas, to train under the renowned Romanian coaches Béla and Márta Károlyi. The Károlyis had previously coached Nadia Comăneci, and Retton aimed to follow in her footsteps. Under their tutelage, Retton quickly emerged as a rising star in the United States.
In 1983, Retton won the prestigious American Cup and finished second at the US Nationals, where another Károlyi student, Dianne Durham, claimed the top spot. Despite missing the World Gymnastics Championships that year due to a wrist injury, Retton continued to impress, winning the American Classic in 1983 and 1984, as well as Japan’s Chunichi Cup in 1983.
The pinnacle of Retton’s career came in 1984 when she dominated the gymnastics scene. She clinched victories at the American Cup, US Nationals, and the US Olympic Trials, securing her spot on the Olympic team. However, tragedy struck when Retton suffered a knee injury while performing a routine at a local gymnastics center, just weeks before the 1984 Summer Olympics were set to begin.
Undeterred by her setback, Retton underwent surgery and embarked on a challenging road to recovery. Her determination and resilience paid off when she defied the odds and delivered an awe-inspiring performance at the Olympics. With her trademark energy and charm, she captivated the crowd and judges alike, securing the gold medal in the individual all-around competition.
Retton’s historic victory not only established her as an Olympic champion but also shattered barriers for American women in gymnastics. She paved the way for future generations of talented gymnasts and cemented her place in women’s history.
After retiring from competitive gymnastics, Retton remained active in the sport as a motivational speaker and television commentator. She married former University of Texas quarterback Shannon Kelley and together they have four daughters: Shayla, McKenna, Skyla, and Emma. In 2018, Retton and Kelley divorced but she continues to be a positive influence on her children and the gymnastics community.
Mary Lou Retton’s impact on gymnastics and society extends far beyond her Olympic triumph. Her legacy is one of inspiration, perseverance, and breaking barriers. By becoming the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal in Olympic gymnastics, she forever etched her name in history, inspiring young girls everywhere to chase their dreams.
Awards:
– Gold Medal, Individual All-Around, 1984 Summer Olympics
– Silver Medal, Team Competition, 1984 Summer Olympics
– Silver Medal, Vault, 1984 Summer Olympics
– Bronze Medal, Uneven Bars, 1984 Summer Olympics
– Bronze Medal, Beam, 1984 Summer Olympics