Winter Olympic athlete represents potatoes

Courtesy photo<br> Washington State Potato Commissioner Angela Pixton, left, stands with skater Apolo Ohno, right, during a photo shoot.

by Ted Escobar<br
| February 12, 2010 8:00 PM

MOSES LAKE — One of America’s hottest celebrities, world champion short-track speed skater Apolo Anton Ohno has become a spokesman for the Washington potato.

According to Commission Executive Director Karen Bonaudi, Ohno will work with the commission in educating the public — youths in particular — about the importance of Washington potatoes.

Ohno will assist in communicating the nutritional value of Washington potatoes. He will participate in yet-to-be determined events and/or appearances. He will be part of an outreach campaign that shares his favorite Washington potato recipes.

“What people may not know is that this world champion and 11-time U.S. national champion loves potatoes and eats them regularly as part of his daily training regimen, including starting his day with a potato breakfast dish,” Bonaudi said.

“Given Apolo’s natural affinity for Washington potatoes and his love for eating and cooking healthy foods, we’re thrilled to have him as ambassador for our champion potatoes and healthy messages,” said commission Chairman Chris Voigt.

Ohno will be present for the U.S. when the 2010 Winter Olympics open in Vancouver, B.C. He is favored to walk away from these Olympics as the most decorated American competitor ever.

Ohno, a five-time gold medalist, is tied with long-track speed skater Eric Heiden for the most Olympic medals by a U.S. male Winter Olympian. He is two medals away from Bonnie Blair, the most decorated American Winter Olympian ever.

“We were impressed with Apolo and his fit with our programs, especially our kids’ programs,” said commission member Angela Pixton. “His passion and interest in encouraging kids to lead healthy lifestyles with proper nutrition and exercise is what makes him a terrific ambassador for the Commission.”

The commission and Ohno launched their partnership earlier this month with a photo shoot in Seattle that included 10 elementary school students, Pixton and Chef Franz Junga of Il Forniao Restaurant.

“It was a blast, and everyone had a good time,” Bonaudi said.