Life was not always a perfect “10” for legendary Olympic gymnast Nadia Comaneci, but the fabled Romanian athlete continues to make life better for herself and young people throughout the world.
Q. You became the first gymnast to record a perfect 10 on July 18, 1976, during the Summer Olympics in Montreal. Does it seem remarkable to you that most people still identify you with that feat?
A. It’s hard for me to believe that people still remember that moment. It happened 27 years ago. It didn’t sink in immediately for me that this was going to be such a special accomplishment. When we think about all the medals I won, most people don’t remember that. They remember the perfect 10. I had no idea when I was 14 that that mark would have had such a big impact. I’m very grateful.
Q. You were chosen the 1976 Associated Press Athlete of the Year and won a combined three gold, one silver and one bronze medal in Montreal and the ’80 Olympics in Moscow. What activities occupy your time these days?
A. In 1984 I officially retired from competition. I still work out. My husband, [Olympic gymnast] Bart Conner, who is originally from Morton Grove, and I have a gymnastics academy in Norman, Okla. We also travel a lot. I was just in India giving a presentation. We have a home in Oklahoma as well as Venice Beach, Calif., and in Romania. I have a book coming out this week called “Letters to a Young Gymnast.” I try to give advice and helpful hints to young people.
Q. I know you’re involved in the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which funds programs around the world that address social issues through sports. Do you feel a personal connection to this type of work?
A. I do four or five projects a year with the Laureus program. It’s all about helping kids. I went through a lot of difficult times as a child myself. If you haven’t gone through tough times yourself, it’s difficult to relate to the kids’ problems.
Q. The story of legendary gymnastics coach Bela Karolyi discovering you in a Romanian elementary school and helping you become a world-class athlete at such a young age is part of Olympic sports lore. Then in 1977 Karolyi was removed as your coach. You were put under the direction of three other coaches. In 1979 you were rejoined by Karolyi. Looking back at your career, do you have any regrets?
A. I don’t have any regrets in my life. Actually, I don’t look back at all. I wouldn’t change anything. Life goes on.
———-
Have a question or an idea for Fred Mitchell?
E-mail: AskFred@tribune.com
