Apolo Anton Ohno, Speedskater

	Apolo Anton Ohno. Michael O'Neill/SI

As told to Brian Cazeneuve

On getting grooming advice from his father, Yuki, a hairstylist in Seattle

His take on the goatee is that he is fine with it as long as I keep it trim. Living in Colorado Springs [at the Olympic Training Center], I tend to just let things grow out because of the intense focus on my training. Kind of like a mountain man.

On choosing to live in the dormlike setup at the OTC, although, thanks to his many endorsements, he has the means to live in a mansion

I wanted to stay grounded and be in the mix of the intensity. It is not the most luxurious room, but this is where I had success before. My room is just like any other. It just has my stuff in it.

On his awkward moment in The Tonight Show dressing room

Right after the 2002 Games, I was flown to The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. I wanted to look presentable. I borrowed a razor in the greenroom -- I had to use a cheap one with soap as shaving cream. I had a few nicks, and while cleaning up the mess, I heard that oh-so-recognizable voice: "Apolo? Where ya hiding at, buddy? What the hell are you doing?" It was Jay Leno. I felt like a knucklehead.

On the difference between Apolo Ohno 2006 and Apolo Ohno 2002

Hopefully I am stronger, faster, mentally tougher and [more] prepared, and I enjoy the sport even more. Appreciation of certain things definitely comes later in life, and I have had the opportunity to appreciate the special aspects of being an Olympian.

On what makes the Olympic atmosphere so special

The hard work, the dedication, the sacrifice, the fact that we only get media coverage every four years, the history of the Olympic ideals and values. It is about the best coming together for the greatest sporting event. Awesome.

On competing in South Korea in October for the first time since the 2002 Games, when he was vilified in the Korean press after a Korean skater was disqualified for impeding his progress, giving Ohno the gold

We were treated so well in Korea -- from the moment we arrived, it was wonderful. They wanted to make sure the team was safe and that we had a good clean competition. Our team got pretty sick, a stomach flu, but I was able to compete well and brought home two gold medals.

On his goals for these Olympics

One goal was just to get to Torino. Now I just want to finish and say, "I did my best," regardless of the outcome. That would be perfect.

On what he sees himself doing after speedskating

Time will tell. So many avenues and doors have opened up because of this sport. I give myself no limitations.

OHNO, 23, WILL SKATE IN FOUR OLYMPIC EVENTS. HE'S FAVORED IN THE 1,500 METERS ON FEB. 12

Issue date: February 13, 2006