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Mary Lou Retton

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Inducted: 2000
Induction Class: Mary Lou Retton (Gymnastics), Nate Archibald (Basketball), Kirby Puckett (Baseball)
Sport: Olympic Games (Gymnastics)
Years Active: 1983-1984
Born: Jan. 24, 1968
Birthplace: Fairmont, West Virginia
Community Focus: Sports & Recreation, Health & Disease
Foundation: Children’s Miracle Network

Mary Lou Retton, the first American woman to win a gold medal in gymnastics and the only American to win the Olympic All-Around title and advocate of physical fitness and confidence among youth, was inducted into the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame as a part of the Class of 2000, which included baseball great Kirby Puckett and basketball star Nate Archibald.

In 1983 Retton won the American Cup, establishing herself as an elite gymnast. At her first Olympics only a year later, Retton won five medals at the 1984 LA Games.  She was also the first gymnast from the United States to win gold in the all-around. Retton won two silver medals in the vault and team event, and bronze medals in both the uneven bars and floor exercise.

Retton hosted her own children’s program, Mary Lou’s Flip Flop Shop, which emphasized the importance of physical fitness, confidence, and positive thinking. The show was intended to encourage its young audience to lead active, healthy, cooperative lives. Retton is a motivational speaker and a “fitness Ambassador”.  She also serves as national chairperson for the Children’s Miracle Network.