Women in Sports History
Kerri Strug: Through Thick and Thin, the Road to Gold
Contributed by Jackie
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 Training was grueling: 8-hour days, 6 or 7 times a week … 
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The road to gold was anything but easy for gymnast Kerri Strug. Challenges included moving around the world and developing multiple serious injuries, yet her determination was unyielding. Developing a passion for gymnastics at a very young age, Kerri set her eyes on the Olympics after a just a few years of training in her home state of Arizona. Kerri knew she needed to be coached by the best to help achieve her goal.
At age 13, she decided to move to Texas, leaving her whole family behind. Training was grueling: 8-hour days, 6 or 7 times a week, with her diet and sleeping schedule constantly monitored. Life was not easy, but she was passionate and determined to make it. She made the 1992 U.S. Olympic team and at age 14, competed as the youngest athlete at the Barcelona games. Kerri also made the 1996 Olympic squad, but in the four years in between, she suffered from stomach and back injuries that required an overall year of recuperation.
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…at age 14, she competed as the youngest athlete at the Barcelona games.
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Injuries would not stop her from achieving her goals, as she demonstrated once again at the 1996 Olympic games. Despite twisting her ankle on her first vault, Kerri finished her second vault and stuck her finish in one of the most memorable Olympic moments in recent years. On July 23, 1996 Kerri Strug displayed truly exceptional dedication and bravery, ensuring the gold medal for her team. Kerri's life demonstrates that the road to any goal will be filled with challenges, but with determination and motivation, nothing is unattainable.
To check out her biography and much more, check out http://www.strug.org/
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