Mary lou retton daily mail
Mary Lou Retton is a legendary American gymnast who won the all-around gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Here are some interesting facts about Mary Lou Retton from the Daily Mail:
Early Life
Mary Lou Retton was born on January 24, 1968, in Fairmont, West Virginia. She began gymnastics at the age of 7 and quickly became a natural, winning her first state championship at 10.
Olympic Glory
At the 1984 Olympics, Retton became the first American gymnast to win the all-around gold medal. She also won a silver medal on the vault and a bronze medal on the floor exercise. Her victory was seen as a major upset, as the Soviet Union had dominated the sport for decades.
Career Highlights
Retton won 14 national championships and was a member of the 1983 World Championship team. She was also a member of the 1984 Olympic team that won the team gold medal.
Post-Olympic Life
After retiring from competitive gymnastics, Retton went on to become a successful businesswoman and television commentator. She has worked as a gymnastics analyst for NBC and has appeared on various TV shows, including "Dancing with the Stars" and "The View".
Personal Life
Retton is married to Shannon Kelley and has four children. She has been involved in various charitable organizations, including the Mary Lou Retton Foundation, which supports children's charities and gymnastics programs.
Legacy
Mary Lou Retton's legacy extends far beyond her Olympic achievements. She has inspired countless young gymnasts and athletes around the world with her determination, hard work, and passion for the sport. She was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997 and was named one of the 100 Greatest Olympians of All Time by the Olympic Games' official website.
Interesting Facts
- Retton was only 16 years old when she won the all-around gold medal at the 1984 Olympics.
- She was the first American gymnast to win the all-around gold medal at the Olympics.
- Retton's victory at the 1984 Olympics was seen as a major upset, as the Soviet Union had dominated the sport for decades.
- She has been involved in various charitable organizations, including the Mary Lou Retton Foundation, which supports children's charities and gymnastics programs.
- Retton was inducted into the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame in 1997 and was named one of the 100 Greatest Olympians of All Time by the Olympic Games' official website.