Eight-time Olympic medalist and most decorated American Winter Olympian, known for his dominance in short track speed skating, particularly in the 500m and 1000m events.
Apolo Ohno is an American retired short track speed skater who has etched his name in the history books as the most decorated American Winter Olympian, with an impressive haul of eight Olympic medals, including two gold, two silver, and four bronze medals. Born on May 22, 1982, Ohno has been a trailblazer in the world of short track speed skating, dominating the sport for over a decade.
Ohno began training full-time in 1996, and at the tender age of 14, he became the youngest U.S. national champion in 1997. He went on to win the national championship title a record 12 times, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with in the sport. In 1999, he became the youngest skater to win a World Cup event title, and in 2001, he became the first American to win a World Cup overall title, which he went on to win again in 2003 and 2005.
Ohno's Olympic journey began at the 2002 Winter Olympics, where he won his first Olympic medal, a silver in the 1000m event. He went on to win a bronze in the 500m event at the 2006 Winter Olympics, and in 2010, he won a silver in the 1500m event and a bronze in the 1000m event. His most memorable Olympic moment came at the 2002 Winter Olympics, where he won a gold medal in the 1000m event, becoming the first American to win an Olympic title in the event since 1988.
Ohno's impressive achievements have earned him numerous awards and accolades. He was named the United States Olympic Committee's Male Athlete of the Month in October 2003 and March 2008, and was crowned U.S. Speedskating's Athlete of the Year for 2003. He was also a finalist for the 2002, 2003, and 2006 Sullivan Award, which recognizes the best amateur athlete in the United States.
After retiring from competitive skating, Ohno has gone on to become a motivational speaker, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. He won the 2007 season of Dancing with the Stars, and later became the host of a revival of Minute to Win It on Game Show Network. Ohno has also worked as a commentator for NBC's coverage of the 2014 Winter Games in Sochi and the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang.
Ohno has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including working with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He has also founded a nutritional supplement business, and has invested in various health, wellness, and technology startups.
Apolo Ohno's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of short track speed skating. His dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport have inspired generations of athletes, and his legacy continues to inspire and motivate people around the world.
“The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and let it come in.” - Apolo Ohno
“I don't believe in the word 'can't.' I believe in the word 'how.' How can I do it? How can I make it happen?” - Apolo Ohno
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” - Apolo Ohno
49 Years Old
An Olympic gold medalist and world champion speed skater, known for his dominance in the 1000m and 1500m events, earning him the title of World Speed Skating Champion.
42 Years Old
American speed skater who specializes in the 500-meter event, winning multiple World Championship medals and competing in three Winter Olympics. Known for his speed and agility on the ice.
42 Years Old
A Canadian Olympic champion and multiple world champion in short track speed skating, known for his exceptional speed and agility on ice.
45 Years Old
A Canadian Olympic gold medalist and multiple World Champion in short track speed skating, known for his exceptional skills and dominance in the sport.
