In a thrilling display of speed skating prowess, Park City’s Casey Dawson has officially qualified for two additional events at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. Competing at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials held at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dawson’s performance over the course of three days has solidified his status as one of the top athletes in the sport. Dawson’s journey at the trials was marked by a stunning victory in the 5000m event on Friday, where he clinched the only men’s Olympic berth in that distance. This win not only highlighted his endurance but also set the tone for the rest of the trials. Following his success in the 5000m, Dawson returned to the ice on Sunday and finished a commendable second in the 1500m race. This event allowed the top three finishers to qualify for the Olympics, and Dawson’s performance ensured he would be representing the United States in yet another event in Milan. However, he faced a setback on Monday during the mass start race, where he did not secure a spot due to a loss in that competition. The 25-year-old speed skater had entered the trials already having qualified for the 10000m and team pursuit races, thanks to his impressive results in early-season World Cup competitions. His preparation and strategic focus for the trials included aiming not only to qualify for the 5000m and 1500m but also to support his teammates in the team pursuit event. In Olympic speed skating, it is crucial for team pursuit athletes to also secure individual event qualifications to participate in the team competition. Dawson’s excitement was palpable as he celebrated his victories. This marked a significant moment for him, as it was the first time he qualified for Olympic events in front of an audience at the trials, a stark contrast to the largely virtual competitions from the previous Winter Olympics held amid the COVID-19 pandemic. "It means a lot," Dawson told NBC Sports after his races. "Last Winter Olympics, Covid kind of took my opportunity to get a full 1500 and 5K in." This sentiment underscores the challenges that athletes faced during the pandemic, which limited their opportunities to compete and showcase their skills. In his Olympic debut four years ago, Dawson won a bronze medal in the team pursuit but faced difficulties in the individual events, finishing 28th in the 1500m and being scratched from the 5000m. Now, with renewed vigor and an impressive track record, he heads into the Milan Games as a strong contender, particularly in the team pursuit event. Dawson partners with teammates Ethan Cepuran and Emery Lehman, forming a trio that has dominated the World Cup circuit, winning all three team pursuit races this season. Notably, they shattered their own world record at the Salt Lake City World Cup, showcasing their cohesion and speed as a unit. In addition to his athletic achievements, Dawson's personality and sense of humor have also made headlines. He has been spotted carrying a bright pink backpack, a lighthearted nod to losing a fantasy football league last season, which he shares with Cepuran and Lehman. He has also attached a plastic foot to his phone case, humorously adorned with a U.S.-themed sock. "It’s going everywhere," Dawson remarked about his iconic backpack, hinting it would accompany him throughout the Olympic experience. The speed skating competitions at the 2026 Winter Olympics will take place at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium, with key events scheduled for February. The 5000m final is set for February 8, followed by the 10000m final on February 13, team pursuit final on February 17, and the 1500m final on February 19. As Dawson approaches these pivotal dates, he will be buoyed by the support of his family, friends, and girlfriend, all of whom have been cheering him on throughout his journey. Dawson expressed his eagerness to fully experience the Olympic atmosphere this time around, saying, "Looking forward to getting my first full touch of the Olympic experience." With his recent victories and the palpable energy surrounding his participation, Dawson is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming Games, not just for himself but also for the United States team as they look to make their mark in the world of speed skating.