Can You Guess Where My Tattoo of the Olympic Rings Is?
Posing with the rings is a must!
THE OLYMPIC TATTOO LORE CONTINUES
Shannon’s March Update
As an Olympian, I get asked a lot of interesting questions, but one that I get asked most is, “Where is your tattoo of the Olympic rings?” And people are always extremely disappointed when I tell them… I don’t have one. In fact, I don’t have any tattoos at all.
When I made the U.S. Ski Team at the age of 18, I had a deal with myself: if I ever made the Olympics, I’d get the rings tattoo. Then I made the Olympics… and for one reason or another didn’t get it.
After more time went by, I said if I won a second Olympic medal, I’d definitely get it. Then I did that too… and still didn’t get it. At one point, my husband even went into a tattoo shop and paid for one, basically removing every possible excuse. And still I didn’t get it.
But now, at the ripe old age of 25 (okay fine, 45), I think I might finally be ready.
I too have always been intrigued by Olympians and their tattoos, but for me it never quite felt right. Until now. Sixteen years after my final Olympics. The moment finally feels… true.
Because when I really think about what those Olympic rings mean to me, it’s so much more than a symbol.
More than a symbol…
The Olympic rings honor the hard work and sacrifice it takes to compete at the highest level.
First, they represent gratitude. I know how lucky I was to make it to that elite level. There are countless athletes who were more talented, who worked harder, who were just as committed, but for one reason or another didn’t make it. Injuries, timing, a few setbacks, lack of support, or simply the mental side getting in the way. The margins are razor thin. So to be someone who made it there, not once, but 3 times, I feel incredibly grateful.
They also represent the journey. From the outside, people often see the Olympic path as sacrifice. And yes, financially and physically, it absolutely can be. But for me? It was exactly what I wanted to be doing every single day. I loved it. I loved being in the gym for hours. I loved waking up with purpose, trying to become a better version of myself than I was the day before. I loved traveling the world, skiing in incredible places, and building friendships with people from completely different backgrounds. I loved chasing the dream of being the best in the world!
Those rings also remind me of something deep in my core. I can do hard things!
When it matters most, when I feel counted out, when I’m the underdog, when the challenge feels way out of reach. That’s when I dig a little deeper. That’s when I find another gear. That’s when I choose to try, fully and fearlessly, just to see what’s possible.
But maybe the most meaningful part of those rings is this: they were never just about me. They represent my parents, who believed in me long before I believed in myself. My coaches and trainers, who poured their time, energy, and heart into helping me grow. The people behind the scenes who helped me navigate injuries, setbacks, and the relentless and tough days no one sees. My ski teammates and fellow competitors, who pushed me, supported me, and made my journey unforgettable. My fellow Olympians. The ones I looked up to as a kid, the ones who made me believe this dream was even possible. The next generation, the athletes with big dreams, relentless work ethic, and that same spark of belief.
So maybe now is the time. I’ve let it sit, and I’ve let it mean something. I’ve let it become more than just a tattoo. The next time you see me, I might finally have an answer to that question, “Where is your tattoo of the Olympic rings?”
“If it’s YOUR calling, it will keep calling.”
3 Things You May Not Know About Me
I’ve been skydiving once. I know you should never say never, but I’m pretty certain I’ll never do that willingly again.
I said “I love you” FIRST to my husband.
If I could master something instantly right now it would be to play the guitar.
See you in the next blog,
-Shannon :)
Salt Lake, 2002