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54-Year-Old Lawyer Makes Olympic History in Curling

2/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Rich Ruohonen, a 54-year-old personal injury lawyer from Minnesota, became the oldest American to compete in the Winter Olympics during a February 12, 2026 match against Switzerland, entering as an alternate and scoring one point as the United States lost 8-3.
Ruohonen expressed gratitude.
Ruohonen's Olympic journey spanned 38 years with near-misses in previous trials.
The United States curling team will face Canada on February 13, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid marked a significant moment in sports history, highlighted by the U.S. ice hockey team's stunning 4-3 victory over the Soviet Union on February 22. This upset, achieved by a team of amateur players, symbolized American resilience during the Cold War and became known as the "Miracle on Ice," solidifying its place as a defining moment in U.S. sports culture.

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Story summary

Rich Ruohonen, a 54-year-old personal injury lawyer from Minnesota, became the oldest American to compete in the Winter Olympics during a February 12, 2026 match against Switzerland, entering as an alternate and scoring one point as the United States lost 8-3.
Ruohonen expressed gratitude.
Ruohonen's Olympic journey spanned 38 years with near-misses in previous trials.
The United States curling team will face Canada on February 13, 2026.

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