Elena Mukhina Tribute

Elena Mukhina (June 1, 1960 -- December 22, 2006), born in Moscow, was a former Soviet gymnast who won the All-Around title at the 1978 World Championships at Strasbourg, France. Her career was on the rise and she was widely touted as the next great gymnastics star. She made history at the 1978 World Championships by unveiling her signature moves: a full-twisting layout Korbut Flip on bars; a tucked double back salto dismount on beam; and a full-twisting double back somersault on floor (still an E-rated move in the Code of Points) dubbed the "Mukhina". Yet, in spite of these innovations, Mukhina maintained the classic Soviet style, inspired by ballet movements and expressive lines. She quickly established herself as an athlete to watch for at the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. In 1980, just two weeks before the opening of the 1980 Games, she broke her neck while performing a Thomas-Salto, leaving her permanently quadriplegic just one month past the age of 20. Elena Mukhina died of complications from quadriplegia on December 22, 2006. Rest in Peace. Music: Herbert Grönemeyer - Der Weg