As the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for speed skating approach, Park City resident Casey Dawson is poised to make a significant impact. Having already secured his place in the upcoming Milan Games for the 10,000-meter event, Dawson now focuses on additional bids in the 5,000-meter, 1,500-meter, and mass start races. The trials, taking place at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, will be critical in determining his final Olympic roster spots. Dawson's journey to the Olympic stage began with a strong performance at the World Cup in Heerenveen, Netherlands, where he clinched sixth place in the 10,000-meter race on December 5, 2025. This finish not only guaranteed his participation in Milan but also secured a team pursuit spot alongside teammates Ethan Cepuran and Emery Lehman. The trio has consistently dominated the team pursuit this season, winning all three of their World Cup competitions together. Under Olympic rules, athletes must qualify in an individual event to compete in the team pursuit at the Games, making Dawson's qualification all the more significant. "I’m excited about the upcoming trials and the chance to compete at such a high level," Dawson remarked, reflecting on his recent performances. He has consistently demonstrated his prowess, finishing in the top ten in individual races at the Heerenveen World Cup and winning the team pursuit event there. He followed up this strong showing with an eighth-place finish in the 5,000-meter race at the World Cup in Hamar, Norway, on December 13, 2025. With the trials looming, Dawson is particularly focused on the 5,000-meter race scheduled for Friday. Only one U.S. skater will qualify for this event at the Olympics, while three spots are available for the 1,500-meter race and one for the mass start race. Dawson expressed confidence, stating, "Having my 10,000-meter and team pursuit spots secured takes some pressure off. The 5,000-meter is my main priority here." The stakes are high, as Dawson aims to replicate his Olympic success from 2022, where he won a bronze medal in the team pursuit in Beijing. He views the trials not just as a qualification event but as a vital opportunity to refine his skills and prepare for the Olympic stage. "These trials are just another kind of touch point before heading to Milan," he explained. "It might be one of the coolest events of the year, aside from the Games, in terms of production and atmosphere." In Milwaukee, Dawson will be supported by a robust cheering section, including family and friends. He noted the importance of having his loved ones present, especially given the restrictions during the last Olympic cycle due to COVID-19. "Last time around, there was Covid, so no one was able to come and cheer us on," Dawson recalled. "This time, I’ll have a pretty decent cheering section, which should make for an exciting weekend." Dawson has fond memories of competing at the Pettit National Ice Center, where he set the American 5,000-meter record earlier this year. He acknowledges that many U.S. skaters are comfortable on the fast ice there, but he is prepared for the challenge. "It’s going to be difficult because a lot of people are peaking for this competition, and anything can happen," he stated, recognizing the competitive landscape as the trials approach. The trial events will be broadcast on USA Network and NBC, allowing fans nationwide to follow Dawson's journey. The schedule includes the 5,000-meter race on Friday, the 1,500-meter race on Sunday, and the mass start race on Monday. As Dawson prepares for these crucial races, he is optimistic about the future of U.S. speed skating and hopes to draw attention to the sport leading up to the Milan Games. Dawson's determination and focus reflect the hard work he has put in over the years, and he is eager to capitalize on this moment to showcase his talent on the world stage. As he gears up for the trials, the Park City speed skater embodies the spirit of competition and the quest for Olympic glory, making him a name to watch in the upcoming games.