In the heart of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, an extraordinary moment unfolded at the 2026 Winter Olympics, highlighting both the spirit of perseverance and the unconventional paths to Olympic glory. The story of a 54-year-old personal injury lawyer from Minnesota, Rich Ruohonen, who became the oldest American athlete to compete in the Winter Games, captured headlines not just for its rarity but for the compelling narrative of dedication, mentorship, and breaking age barriers. As the U.S. men’s curling team faced a challenging match against Switzerland, Ruohonen’s entry into the game exemplified how determination and team camaraderie can forge historic moments, transcending typical expectations of age and career paths.
Ruohonen’s Unexpected Olympic Debut
A Match That Tells a Story
The scene was set during the final moments of a tense U.S. versus Switzerland curling game. The Americans were trailing with a score of 8-2, and anticipation was high for a possible comeback. In an unexpected turn, the team called for a substitution, bringing on Rich Ruohonen, a veteran in his own right. His role was modest — a strategic move to bolster the team’s efforts — but it marked an extraordinary milestone. As Ruohonen carefully threw the corner guard, his focus was palpable. Watching his stone glide smoothly into position solidified his place in Olympic history as the oldest U.S. athlete to compete at the Winter Olympics.
The reaction from teammates and spectators was immediate and warm. Lead skip Danny Casper, notable for his youthful energy, shouted in encouragement, “Yeah, baby! Good shot, Rich!” The crowd responded with applause, acknowledging Ruohonen’s perseverance. His expression was one of modest pride mixed with a hint of wistfulness; he shared that he’d preferred to have had the moment earlier in the game when his team was leading, rather than trailing. Yet, his gratitude was evident, appreciating the opportunity to compete at such an elite level.
A Champion in More Than One Arena
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A Multifaceted Life
Rich Ruohonen’s journey to this Olympic appearance is as compelling as his performance on ice. Balancing a demanding career as a personal injury attorney with his athletic pursuits showcases his extraordinary time management and dedication. During the week, he rises early, often at 5 a.m., to fit in workout and training sessions before heading to his law practice. His workday, filled with hearings and meetings, doesn’t end until evening, but his commitment to curling remains unwavering. He dedicates his weekends to tournaments, traveling extensively while managing to stay connected with his family.
His wife, Sherri, and their two adult children, Nicholas and Hannah, are integral parts of his life. He has actively involved his son Nicholas in the sport, teaching him to curl as his father taught him, although Nicholas prefers hockey. Despite the hustle, Ruohonen’s familial bonds and his role as a mentor shine through. His teammates often joke about his profession, sometimes referring to him humorously as “the lawyer,” but there’s genuine affection and respect for his work ethic and mentoring spirit.
The Life of a Modern Olympian
Ruohonen’s approach to balancing his career and Olympic aspirations exemplifies the modern Olympic athlete’s reality, especially for those not primarily in professional athletics. His days involve early mornings, late nights, and travel, yet he remains committed to his team and sport. This juggling act underscores the increasing diversity of athletes at the Games, where age, profession, and background are no longer limiting factors but sources of inspiration.
His story resonates with many, demonstrating that Olympic participation today is not exclusive to young, full-time athletes. Instead, it’s a reflection of lifelong passion, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence despite conventional barriers.
The Role of Mentorship and Team Spirit
A Surprising but Endearing Bond
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Ruohonen’s journey is the relationship he has developed with the younger team members. His presence on the team has gone beyond the ice; he serves as an unofficial mentor, a role that illumes the importance of experience and leadership. The younger curlers, many of whom belong to Generation Z, see Ruohonen as an “honorary uncle,” appreciating his wisdom and life experience amidst the high-pressure environment of the Olympics.
Rich’s involvement unofficially extends into daily team logistics—driving teammates to practices, helping wake them up for early sessions, and even buying snacks. This camaraderie underscores the significance of mentorship in sports, regardless of age, and how mutual respect can foster a stronger team dynamic.
Bringing Old and New Together
The inclusion of Ruohonen in the Olympics achieved more than just adding an inspiring human story. His presence provided a vital link between generations of curlers, embodying the sport’s history while embracing its evolving culture. The team’s victory in qualification, which involved defeating seasoned opponents, was partly facilitated by the experience and perspective Ruohonen brought to the table.
Reflecting on his era, Ruohonen reminisced about the days when curlers smoked on the ice and focused solely on throwing stones. He complimented his team’s youthful vigor and discipline, noting, “Look at these guys. Every one of them’s ripped. And every one of them sweeps their butt off.” His comments reinforce the notion that experience and youth together can create a formidable team, and that age should not be a barrier to participation or achievement.
Legacy and Inspiration
Rich Ruohonen’s story has already inspired many, showcasing that perseverance, love of sport, and resilience can lead to breakthroughs at any stage of life. His journey exemplifies the expanding definition of what it means to be an Olympian in the 21st century. No longer confined by age or traditional career paths, athletes like Ruohonen remind us that the Olympic spirit thrives on diversity, dedication, and the pursuit of dreams—regardless of the stage of life.
As the Winter Olympics continue, Ruohonen’s experience serves as a testament to the power of never giving up, of balancing multiple roles with grace, and of inspiring others to pursue their passions no matter the obstacles or age. His victory isn’t limited to a stone sliding on ice; it is a victory of resilience, mentorship, and the enduring human spirit.
This story has been corrected to show the first name of Ruohonen’s son is Nicholas, not Nicolas.
