Apollo Ohno: Based on NeemTime research
Who is Apollo Ohno?
Apolo Anton Ohno is a retired American short-track speed skater, widely recognized as one of the most successful and decorated Olympians in his sport. Ohno gained fame for his eight Winter Olympic medals (two gold, two silver, and four bronze) and his charismatic personality. Beyond the rink, he is a motivational speaker, author, and television personality, known for his appearances on Dancing with the Stars and his efforts to inspire others to achieve greatness.
Biography of Apollo Ohno
Apolo Anton Ohno was born on May 22, 1982, in Federal Way, Washington, to a Japanese father, Yuki Ohno, and a European-American mother, Jerrie Lee. Raised primarily by his father, Yuki, after his parents divorced when he was an infant, Apolo’s upbringing was marked by discipline and focus.
From a young age, he excelled in athletic pursuits, trying swimming and inline skating before turning to short-track speed skating at age 13. By 14, he became the youngest U.S. national champion in short-track skating. Despite early setbacks, including being left off the Olympic team in 1998, he used the experience to fuel his drive, becoming a dominant force in the sport.
Ohno’s Olympic journey began in 2002 at the Salt Lake City Games, where he won a gold medal amid controversy and a silver medal. He went on to compete in three Winter Olympics, solidifying his legacy as a short-track legend. Post-retirement, Apolo transitioned into motivational speaking, TV hosting, and entrepreneurship, releasing a memoir, Zero Regrets: Be Greater Than Yesterday, which chronicles his life lessons and success philosophy.
10 Facts About Apollo Ohno
Young Champion: Apolo became the youngest U.S. national champion in short-track speed skating at 14.
Olympic Medalist: He holds eight Olympic medals, making him the most decorated American Winter Olympian in his sport.
Father’s Influence: Apolo credits his father, Yuki, for instilling discipline and focus in him.
Dancing Winner: Won Season 4 of Dancing with the Stars in 2007 alongside partner Julianne Hough.
Nickname: Known as the “Michael Phelps of the Winter Olympics” for his dominance in short track.
Entrepreneur: Co-founded Quantum Ventures, focusing on health, wellness, and technology investments.
Dietary Discipline: Followed a strict regimen to stay in peak physical condition during his skating career.
Philanthropy: Active supporter of charities like the Special Olympics and youth mentorship programs.
Hall of Fame: Inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame in 2019.
Author: Wrote Zero Regrets: Be Greater Than Yesterday to inspire readers to pursue their goals relentlessly.
Family of Apollo Ohno
Father: Yuki Ohno, a Japanese immigrant and hairstylist who raised Apolo as a single parent.
Mother: Jerrie Lee, who separated from Yuki shortly after Apolo’s birth.
Siblings: Apolo has no siblings and is an only child.
Spouse: Engaged to Bianca Stam, a model, actress, and businesswoman.
Children: As of now, Apolo and Bianca do not have children.
Apollo Ohno Shirtless
Personal Details of Apolo Ohno
Full Name: Apolo Anton Ohno
Date of Birth: May 22, 1982
Place of Birth: Federal Way, Washington, USA
Nationality: American
Height: 5’8” (173 cm)
Weight: 145 lbs (66 kg)
Profession: Retired Short-Track Speed Skater, TV Personality, Author, Entrepreneur
Education: Attended the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Partner: Bianca Stam (fiancée)
Hobbies: Fitness, motivational speaking, traveling, and philanthropy
10 Quotes by Apolo Ohno
“Zero regrets is not about being perfect. It’s about making a commitment to becoming the best version of yourself.”
“The only limits we have are the ones we put on ourselves.”
“To be the best, you have to work harder than anyone else.”
“Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently.”
“Success is a journey, not a destination.”
“When you believe in yourself, anything is possible.”
“Champions are made when no one is watching.”
“I’ve learned that the process is as important as the result.”
“Greatness is earned, not given.”
“Every challenge is a chance to rise to the occasion.”
10 Trivia About Apolo Ohno
Early Talent: Apolo switched from inline skating to short-track speed skating at just 13 years old.
First Olympics: Debuted at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, winning one gold and one silver medal.
Dancing Star: He won Season 4 of Dancing with the Stars in 2007.
Iconic Headband: Known for wearing a bandana during his races, which became part of his signature look.
Philanthropy: Supports organizations like the Special Olympics and Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
Business Ventures: Co-founded Quantum Ventures, focusing on wellness and health technology.
Broadcasting: Became a sports analyst for NBC covering Olympic events.
Author: His memoir, Zero Regrets, outlines his journey and motivational philosophy.
Cameo Role: Appeared in the 2007 film Blades of Glory in a small cameo.
Fitness Advocate: After retiring, he transitioned into endurance sports like Ironman triathlons.
Why We Love Apolo Ohno
Unparalleled Dedication: Apolo’s work ethic and commitment to his craft inspire countless fans.
Charisma: His charm and humility make him relatable and likable.
Trailblazer: He brought short-track speed skating into the spotlight in the U.S.
Resilience: Overcame early setbacks to become one of the most decorated Olympians in history.
Philanthropy: Actively gives back to the community and supports meaningful causes.
Positive Role Model: Encourages people to aim for personal excellence and embrace challenges.
Entertainment Versatility: From the Olympics to Dancing with the Stars, Apolo thrives in diverse arenas.
Inspiration: His Zero Regrets philosophy motivates others to achieve their potential.
Family Bond: His close relationship with his father, Yuki, highlights his strong family values.
Endurance and Growth: Continues to push boundaries post-retirement, showing that life’s achievements extend beyond one’s first career.