Oldest US Winter Olympian Earns Six ‘Attorney of the Year’ Titles
In an exciting turn of events at the Winter Olympics, Rich Ruohonen made history as the oldest US athlete to compete. The 54-year-old personal injury lawyer from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, recently joined the men’s curling team. His moment came during a match against Switzerland, where the US team was trailing 8-2.
Rich Ruohonen’s Olympic Historic Moment
Ruohonen stepped onto the ice and successfully delivered a corner guard stone. His teammate, skip Danny Casper, cheered him on, highlighting the camaraderie within the team. Despite the team’s challenging score, the audience responded with a standing ovation for Ruohonen’s achievement.
A Unique Role on the Team
Ruohonen has taken on a mentor role within the team. After being invited to join as an alternate for Casper, who has Guillain-Barre syndrome, he became a vital support system for his younger teammates. Not only does he help transport them to practices, but he also wakes them up early for training sessions and provides snacks during long days.
- Age: 54 years old
- Olympic Debut: First match against Switzerland
- Team’s Status: Down 8-2 at the time of his entry
- Role: Alternate for Casey Casper
On top of his athletic commitments, Ruohonen balances a demanding law career. He starts his day at 5 a.m. for workouts, then dedicates his day to his law practice. By evening, he continues training and competes in tournaments on weekends while managing his legal work remotely.
Team Dynamics and Humor
The relationship between Ruohonen and his teammates is characterized by mutual respect and a lighthearted spirit. During a recent press conference, Casper humorously referenced Ruohonen’s legal profession, suggesting that “if you need a lawyer, you can call Rich.”
This playful banter reflects the supportive atmosphere within the team. Ruohonen’s experience brings invaluable wisdom and a connection to previous generations of the sport. He credits his younger teammates for their rigorous training and dedication, contrasting it with the sport’s earlier days.
Commitment Beyond the Ice
Ruohonen frequently travels for competitions, managing to keep his professional life intact. He seamlessly integrates his legal responsibilities into his curling schedule, even attending hearings via Zoom while on the road. His dedication exemplifies the balance of sports and career.
With his remarkable journey, Rich Ruohonen not only earns accolades as the oldest US Winter Olympian but also demonstrates the spirit of perseverance and commitment in both athletics and law. His role in the team showcases the bond formed through shared goals and ambitions.
