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Telegraph

Olympics tattoos have become mandatory for athletes but they mean much more than you think

Telegraph
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Chris Jacobs was likely the first U.S. swimmer with an Olympic rings tattoo.

Ryan Lochte's coloured rings on his inside right bicep became a familiar sight when he and Michael Phelps were on their way to 40 medals in their Olympic pomp.

Now the tattoo is so common it would be quicker to name the athletes who do not have one.

There is a nobler aim in commemorating an Olympics appearance.

A tattoo is a testament to sacrifice, one that does not have to live in a safe like a medal.

“It helps me to remember that I can work through any challenges, and generally hard work and diligence really does work.”.