Profile of American Athlete - Mary Lou Retton By Tisha Kulak Tolar

Mary Lou Retton also known as "Americas Sweetheart" is a well know American athlete. She has been retired from competitive women's gymnastics since 1986 yet still holds a special place in the hearts of Americans and the history of the sport. Here we will learn more about the child, the athlete and the woman she is today.
Background and Childhood.
Born on January 24, 1968 in Fairmont, WV Mary Lou Retton is one of five children. Mary Lou Retton began dance classes when she was four years old and then began gymnastic classes with her older sister. She trained in West Virginia until the age of 14 when she moved to Houston to begin studying under Bela Karolyi. While living in Houston she lived with a fellow student's family and continued her education while training via correspondence courses. She almost missed the 1984 Olympics due to a knee injury which required surgery just six weeks before the Olympics. She recovered from surgery in just three weeks and the rest as they say "is history".
Athletic Accomplishments.
She became a famous household name during the 1984 Olympics when she became the first American woman to ever win a gold medal in gymnastics. That year she won the All Around Gold Metal plus two silver and bronze metals in other events; the most won by a single athlete in that Olympics. Her record still stands as the only American to have won the Olympic All Around Title.
Of course she didn't get to that level of athletic competition without other accomplishments under her belt. Between 1983 and 1985 she won several times at the American Cup, American Classic, US Nationals. She was the first American to win the prestigious Japanese Chunichi Cup.
Where Is She Now?
Mary Lou Retton and her husband Shannon Kelly reside in Houston, TX where they raise their four daughters. She continues to have a positive impact on the lives of others today as a motivational speaker. Understanding the importance of regular exercise and proper nutrition, Mary Lou Retton is often considered a fitness ambassador. She routinely travels around the world speaking on the importance of parents encouraging their children to get active by setting the example themselves. She reminds parents and children that physical activity comes in many forms and you don't have to be involved in sports or compete on an Olympic level to incorporate daily exercise and other healthy habits in your life. As a result of her hard work, dedication and ultimate success in her sport she remains a role model to aspiring gymnasts and other athletes to this day.

By Tisha Kulak Tolar .