MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin — In a thrilling showcase of endurance and skill, Casey Dawson, a native of Park City, Utah, has qualified to represent Team USA at the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina in February 2026. This significant achievement marks Dawson's second appearance at the Olympics, a milestone he has worked tirelessly to reach following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic during the last Olympic cycle. Competing at the prestigious Pettit National Ice Center, Dawson clinched his Olympic berth by winning the 5000-meter race with an impressive time of 6:12.857. His victory not only secured him a spot on the 2026 Olympic Team but also showcased his remarkable resilience as an athlete. In addition to the 5000m event, Dawson has also qualified to compete in the 10,000-meter race, a feat achieved through his outstanding World Cup results during the 2025-26 season. "Finally, hopefully, I get my chance to skate [the 5000m] from not being able to skate because of COVID last time around. I’m just happy to finally secure my spot and also have a 10k spot to go with it. I’m excited to get to the Games and show ‘em what I got," Dawson expressed in an interview with U.S. Speedskating following the final results of the 5k. Dawson's journey to the Olympics is a testament to his dedication and passion for speedskating. Affectionately nicknamed "Racey Casey" by his mother, Tami, Dawson began his athletic career at a young age. His introduction to speedskating came through the Park City Speedskating Club while he was in elementary school, a program that has fostered many talented athletes. After graduating from Park City High School, he continued to develop his skills and refine his technique, ultimately leading him to train at the Utah Olympic Oval in Salt Lake City. The Utah Olympic Oval has served as a crucial training ground for Dawson and many other aspiring Olympians. Home to both the 2002 Winter Olympics and the upcoming 2034 Games, the oval offers state-of-the-art facilities that support athletes in their pursuit of excellence. Dawson currently benefits from the Athlete Housing opportunity provided through the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation, which includes resources from the Utah Olympic Park and the Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, ensuring he has the necessary support as he prepares for the Olympics. Dawson's success at the Olympic Team Trials is not just a personal victory; it also reflects the growing prominence of speedskating in the United States. His achievement comes during a time when the sport is gaining renewed interest, thanks in part to the efforts of organizations like the Youth Sports Alliance (YSA). As a YSA Ambassador, Dawson is committed to promoting youth sports and inspiring the next generation of athletes. His involvement with the YSA underscores the importance of community support in nurturing talent from a young age. In the lead-up to the Olympics, Dawson has continued to train rigorously, honing his skills and building endurance. His commitment to the sport has not gone unnoticed, and he is viewed as a strong contender in both the 5000m and 10,000m events. Fans and fellow athletes alike are eager to see how he performs on the international stage, especially after his remarkable comeback from the disruptions of the previous Olympic cycle. As Dawson prepares to take on the world in Milan Cortina, he carries with him the hopes and support of his hometown community. Friends and family from Park City celebrated his recent victory, showcasing the tight-knit bonds that characterize the local sports culture. Videos of his joyful celebration following the race have circulated, capturing the excitement and pride surrounding his achievement. Looking ahead, Casey Dawson is not only focused on his performance but also on the broader implications of his journey. He understands that his success could inspire countless young athletes who dream of competing at the highest levels. As he gears up for the Games, he remains committed to his training and dedicated to representing Team USA with pride. The qualifications for the 2026 Winter Olympics mark a significant chapter in Dawson's career, one filled with determination, resilience, and the spirit of competition. As he prepares for the challenges ahead, he remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that with hard work and dedication, dreams can indeed become a reality.