Explore Quotes by Mary Lou Retton

Getting to know athletes from all over the planet is a big part of the Olympic experience.

More than 10,000 athletes came to Atlanta seeking Olympic medals. Only a few of them will be lucky and skilled enough to claim one.

Former Olympians also get paid to make appearances. Many of them won their medals in an era when Olympic success didn't go hand-in-hand with financial success.

I cant justify taking money away from hungry kids and needy schools to pay for the Games when corporations are willing to write the checks.

Pay-per-view would deprive many kids of the delight of seeing the Olympics.

As a kid, I was a pretty good little sprinter.

Companies that support sports developmental programs in our communities should also be applauded.

In the dressing room, I always put on my right shoe first. Same thing for my right wristband.

For athletes, the Olympics are the ultimate test of their worth.

There can be distractions, but if you're isolated from the heart of the Games, the Olympics become just another competition.

Rather then focusing on the obstacle in your path, focus on the bridge over the obstacle.

Friendship is a living thing that lasts only as it is nourished with kindness, sympathy, and understanding.

Working hard becomes a habit, a serious kind of fun. You get self-satisfaction from pushing your self to the limit, knowing that all the effort is going to pay off.

As much time as you put into it, that's what your achievements are going to be when you come out of it.

There are so many negatives in our society. To be on the cover of a magazine these days, you have to have been through drug rehab three times. What message is this giving to young people? But there are positives in our society. And I try to surround myself with good-natured, positive people.

As simple as it sounds, we all must try to be the best person we can: by making the best choices, by making the most of the talents we've been given.

A trophy carries dust. Memories last forever.

Each of us has a fire in our hearts for something. It's our goal in life to find it and keep it.

Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.