Dianne Durham was a pioneer and icon within the gymnastics community. At the junior level, Durham claimed the 1981 and 1982 U.S. all-around championships, and in 1983, she became the first Black gymnast to capture a U.S. senior all-around national championship in a dominating performance that also earned her gold medals on vault, balance beam, and floor exercise. Dianne was a strong contender for the 1984 Olympic team but unfortunately suffered an injury at the Olympic Trials.
Following her competitive career, Durham remained involved with gymnastics as a performer, coach, and judge, and for nearly two decades, operated Skyline Gymnastics in Chicago, Ill. Her success on the national stage broke barriers and trailblazed a path for all gymnasts of color who have followed in her footsteps. Durham, who passed away in February, will receive this honor posthumously. She is survived by her husband, Tom Drahozal.
