Carly Patterson captured the heart of the nation when she won the All-Around Gold Medal in Women’s Gymnastics at the 2004 Olympics. She was the first American woman to win the title in 20 years, also taking home silver medals for balance beam, and the Women’s team competition. She was also the first woman ever to win the All-Around Gold Medal in Women’s Gymnastics in a non-boycotted Olympics.
Nastia Liukin : Olympic Gold Gymnast
The story of 2008 Olympic Champion gymnast Anastasia “Nastia” Liukin is that of the true American dream. Born in Moscow, Russia to Valeri and Anna, both champion gymnasts themselves in their native country, the Liukin’s moved to the U.S. when Nastia was two & a half years old, wanting to give their daughter every opportunity. Valeri won four medals including two gold at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul, and Anna is the 1987 rhythmic gymnastics World Champion. The family moved to New Orleans before settling in Texas. In 1994 Valeri along with a former teammate opened WOGA in Plano, TX.