My mother introduced me to many different things, and figure skating was one of them. I just thought that it was magical having to glide across the ice.
My desire to exit the game is greater than my desire to remain in it. I have searched my heart through and through and feel comfortable with this decision.
I've been competitive since day one. Even in little things as a child, like having a twin and a direct competitor for who makes better cookies.
I think that's something to look forward to: The new Gracie Gold at the Olympics. In 2014, you'll see a lot of the warm Gracie, and not just the athletic Gracie.
I pretty much knew that I was going to come in fourth, but then I said, 'I'm fourth at the Olympic Games. What are you talking about? Why is that disappointing?'
'Pretty Little Liars' - my sister and I read the books, so we stuck to it for the first season, but it started to kind of drift off; so did we.
I think if I just do what I do every day, on the extraordinary Olympic stage, I could be a podium contender.
If I were packing for a deserted island, I would bring sunscreen, a water purifier, something to start a fire with, my sister, and something for protection.
Regarding the Hall of Fame, when they decided I was going to be one of the possible candidates, when I heard that, I was so thrilled. You're always hoping for something like that.
I was a big fan of Jean-Claude Van-Damme growing up, and I always wanted to be a martial artist 'cause of him.
My own ambition in the ring had always been skillful boxing, speed and defense - on the order of Mike Gibbons.
I was the kind of child who worked hard every day with the cows and sheep - I was a very aggressive boy.
Why should I say I will retire in three or four years? You retire the very moment you utter those words.
I always tell young athletes the same thing, 'Wherever you go, whatever you do, what must your top priority be? Running.'
I think Ray Guy and John Madden for sure should be in the Hall of Fame and Cliff Branch should be as well.
I don't have any down days. If anybody who knows me comes into our locker room, they know I'm happy; they know I'm cheerful.
I did do Broadway for a little less than a year and realized quickly I don't have a passion for it and, more importantly, I don't have a talent in it.
When you reach that elite level, 90 percent is mental and 10 percent is physical. You are competing against yourself. Not against the other athlete.
On certain plays and situations I feel like I have the advantage. But sometimes I just have to not think about the size of the guy in front of me.
I never dislike anyone that I am in competition with. I welcome the challenge. Besides, I get along with just about everyone.
There were no competitions on television. The first skating competition I ever remember seeing on television was the 1968 Olympics when Peggy Fleming won.
