Mary Lou Retton

Native from West Virginia, Mary Lou Retton catapulted to international fame by winning the All Around Gold Medal in women’s gymnastics at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. She was the first American woman ever to win a gold medal in gymnastics. Mary Lou also won silver medals for Team and Vault, and bronze medals for Uneven Bars and Floor Exercise.

Her five medals were the most won by any athlete at the ’84 Olympics. To this day she remains the only American ever to win the Olympic All Around Title. Other victories include being the only woman to win three American Cups (1983 85), the only American to win Japan’s prestigious Chunichi Cup (1983), two U.S. Gymnastics Federation American Classics (1983 84), and the All Around title at both the 1984 National Championships and Olympic Trials. Mary Lou retired from competitive gymnastics in 1986.

Mary Lou is currently living in Houston with her four daughters, Shayla Rae, McKenna Lane, Skyla Brae, and Emma Jean, and her husband Shannon Kelley. Today, Mary Lou continues to touch the lives of millions since she is a great motivational speaker and travels the world as a “Fitness Ambassador” promoting the benefits of proper nutrition and regular exercise. Mary Lou serves as national chairperson and sits on the Board of Governors of the Children’s Miracle Network.

Learn more at MaryLouRetton.com.