Thursday, March 22nd, 2012
12:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Naples Grande Beach Resort

Youth Haven is proud to bring Apolo Anton Ohno to Naples in celebration of our 40 years of continuous service to children and families in our community.

Apolo, born May 22nd, 1982, is an American short track speed skating comprtitor and an eight-time medalist (two gold, two silver, four bronze) in the Winter Olympics.  He is the most decorated American Winter Olympian of all time.

But, it was not an easy road for Apolo.  His extraordinary path to glory was lined with many rough patches.  Apolo grew up in a single-parent household often "skating on thin ice," rebelling against his father and running with questionable crowds.  Because he was a rambunctious and rule-breaking youngster, his father made it his mission to make sure Apolo focused on school and sports to stay out of trouble.  Wanting the best for his son and afraid of the path Apolo was on, his father took the reins and strongly encouraged him to think hard about his future and what he wanted to do with his life.  Apolo made a passionate commitment to skating and never looked back - always focusing on the finish.

Today, off the ice, Apolo dedicates his efforts to mentoring the countless number of youth who consider him a hero and sharing with them firsthand that if you always give 100% of yourself in whatever you do, success is possible.  Regardless of how your life started, everyone has the ability to beat the odds and follow their dream.