Kathy Johnson, in the prime of her gymnastics career, was robbed of an Olympic opportunity in 1980, when the United States boycotted the Moscow Games. Thought to be too old for the 1984 games in Los Angeles, Johnson qualified for the U.S.
team. Days after she was part of the Americans’ silver-medal squad, the former Centenary star earned some individual glory. On this day 40 years ago, Johnson retired in style.
At 24 years old, her effort on the balance beam earned a 9.85 and a bronze medal. “I heard talk over the last four years that I was sliding,” said Johnson, who burst into tears following her dismount.
“But I never took (the talk) seriously. “It wasn’t the medal (that made me cry), it was that I did it, that I hit the routine.” With her competitive career in the rear-view mirror, Johnson said planned to coach or give TV commentating a shot.
“I thought retiring would be terrible, like someone ripping my heart out, because I do gymnastics with my heart,” Johnson said. “Now, I’m glad I waited until the time was right. “Even though I sit here with tears in my eyes, I’m very, very happy.
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