Casey Dawson Places Eighth in 5,000m, Sporting Pink Backpack

Casey Halston

Published: February 13, 2026 11:34 AM ET

Casey Dawson Places Eighth in 5,000m, Sporting Pink Backpack

Casey Dawson, an American speed skater, made headlines during the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan, Italy. Competing in the men’s 5,000-meter race on February 8, he secured an impressive eighth place with a time of 6:11.88. Dawson’s vibrant pink backpack, adorned with hearts, became a distinctive feature of his Olympic journey.

Race Performance Overview

The 5,000-meter event showcased a fierce level of competition. Dawson displayed remarkable skills against a backdrop of enthusiastic fans. Noteworthy spectators included United States Vice President JD Vance, adding to the race’s significance.

Medal Standings

Gold: Sander Eitrem (Norway) – 6:03.95 (New Olympic Record)
Silver: Metodej Jilek (Czechia) – 6:06.48
Bronze: Riccardo Lorello (Italy) – 6:09.22
Davide Ghiotto (Italy) – 6:09.57

The Significance of the Pink Backpack

Casey Dawson’s signature pink backpack has become a symbol of his Olympic experience. As part of a fantasy football league challenge, he commits to carrying this backpack throughout the Olympic year. In a pre-race video, Dawson remarked, “It keeps me humble. It keeps me grounded,” highlighting its personal significance.

Future Competitions and Aspirations

At 25 years old, Dawson hails from Utah and previously earned a bronze medal in team pursuit at the 2022 Beijing Olympics. This Olympic cycle, he is set to compete in several events, including the 1,500-meter and 10,000-meter races.

Race Conditions and Challenges

Dawson faced difficult ice conditions during the 5,000-meter race, a challenge shared by many athletes. Despite these obstacles, he remained positive, emphasizing the importance of trusting one’s skating abilities.

As the 2026 Winter Olympics unfold, Casey Dawson and his iconic pink backpack are sure to continue captivating audiences worldwide. His journey encapsulates the obstacles and victories inherent in competitive speed skating, paving the way for an exciting future. Visit Filmogaz.com for continuous coverage of this remarkable event.