Daniel Petty / The Denver Post)
Eight years ago, when Jenny Simpson made her first appearance at the Olympics, she was just 22 years-old and known as Colorado Buffaloes star Jenny Barringer.
At the time, and understandably so, Simpson was somewhat wide-eyed during her Olympic experience in Beijing. Every small detail, from the opening ceremonies to receiving her official
U.S. uniform, was cause for inner reflection and a fresh rash of goosebumps.
Eight years later, Simpson is no less appreciative of what will be her third Olympic experience in Rio. However, this time around the bright lights and the distractions from the constant circus of pomp and circumstance no longer are experiences that need to be savored.