Oldest US Winter Olympian Achieves Six-Time ‘Attorney of the Year’ Honors
In a historic moment for the United States, Rich Ruohonen, a 54-year-old personal injury lawyer, made headlines as the oldest Winter Olympian to compete for the country. This significant achievement took place during a challenging men’s curling match against Switzerland, where the US team found themselves trailing 8-2.
Rich Ruohonen: The Oldest US Winter Olympian
Ruohonen’s journey to the Olympics has been a combination of dedication and resilience. Originally from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, he joined the team as an alternate due to skip Danny Casper’s health condition, specifically Guillain-Barre syndrome. His participation not only marked a personal milestone but also served as an inspiration for his teammates.
Team Spirit and Camaraderie
The dynamics within the US curling team have made Ruohonen feel like an honorary uncle. He has taken on numerous supportive roles, such as:
- Driving teammates to practice
- Waking them for morning training sessions
- Providing snacks for the group
Despite the rigorous demands of his law career, which requires early mornings and late-night practices, Ruohonen remains fully committed. He balances a busy work life and athletic commitments, managing to handle legal work while on the road for curling tournaments.
Work-Life Balance
Ruohonen’s typical day starts at 5 a.m., where he dedicates hours to training before moving on to his law practice. He often returns home late but continues to support his team, demonstrating incredible work ethic and passion. As Casper noted during a press conference, “If you need a lawyer, I think you can call Rich.”
A Generational Link in Curling
Throughout his Olympic experience, Ruohonen has embraced the chance to connect different generations of the sport. He reflects on the evolution of curling, contrasting it with the earlier days when it had a different atmosphere. His teammates are noted for their dedication and physical fitness, qualities Ruohonen deeply admires.
“Look at these guys,” he commented. “Every one of them’s ripped and every one of them sweeps their butt off.” Ruohonen’s presence on the team not only provides mentorship but also signifies the strength of experience, contributing significantly to the team’s Olympic journey.
Overall, Rich Ruohonen’s story serves as a testament to determination, skill, and the spirit of teamwork at the Winter Olympics. His contribution goes beyond just competition; it represents a blending of youth and experience in the ever-evolving sport of curling.
