It used to be that the occupations associated with tattoos were things along the lines of “sailor” and “prison inmate.” You certainly didn’t see many athletes with ink until the last 30 years, especially not ones who were competing in the Olympics. But now tattoos are more commonplace than ever, including in the games. Here are 13 athletes (like diver Kelci Bryant, above) who have some serious ink to show while going for the gold!


Swimmer Ryan Lochte has an alligator tattooed on his shoulder, and some Olympic rings that you can see in the gallery. I wonder what the Greek text on the reptile means?

Apparently lots of spectators and athletes alike at the 2012 London games are getting ink in memorial of the event, which I understand. Competing in the Olympics is a pretty big deal, and probably as good of an excuse as any to get something put on your body forever! Head on over to the sources to see even more photos. [via Celebuzz, Oddee]

What do you think of these tattoos? Which ones are your favorite?