Shaine Casas Gears Up for Olympic Debut

Shaine Casas, McAllen’s own swimming sensation, is on the brink of a milestone in his athletic career as he prepares for his debut at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games. Competing in the 200-meter men’s individual medley, Casas is set to take the plunge on Thursday, August 1, representing the United States with pride.

Since his days at Texas A&M, Casas has envisioned this moment. His hopes for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were dashed when he finished third in the qualifiers, narrowly missing the top-two finish needed to advance. Despite this setback, Casas remained undeterred. Over the past four years, he has emerged as a formidable swimmer on the global stage. With 14 world championship medals, three national titles, and numerous NCAA accolades, Casas has solidified his place among the elite. His accolades include being named SEC Swimmer of the Year, SwimSwam Swimmer of the Year, and College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association Division I Swimmer of the Year.

Casas’ journey to Paris has been marked by intense preparation, both physically and mentally. He’s more focused than ever, having worked tirelessly to eliminate distractions and hone his skills. Reflecting on his journey, Casas shared, “The obstacles and everything I’ve been through have given me confidence as an athlete and a person. It’s great to win, but sometimes losing teaches you more than winning.”

This more mature and measured approach is a stark contrast to his mindset four years ago. Casas acknowledges the growth he has experienced, saying, “I feel like I’m in the best spot mentally, physically, and socially. Four years ago, I was new to it and naïve about how things really go. I’ve definitely grown up and learned.”

The competition in Paris will be fierce, with 25 swimmers vying for a spot in the semifinals. The 16 fastest times from the heats will advance. Casas will swim in Heat No. 4, lane five, with the heats beginning at 4:40 a.m. Central Time (11:40 a.m. Paris time). The semifinals are set for 2:35 p.m. Central Time (9:35 p.m. Paris time), and the medal round will take place on Friday at 1:43 p.m. Central Time (8:43 p.m. Paris time).

Casas enters the competition with a time of 1 minute, 55.83 seconds, placing him third among his competitors. Only teammate Carson Foster (1:55.65), China’s Shun Wang (1:54.62), and France’s Leon Marchand (1:54.82) have faster entry times. The Olympic record, held by Michael Phelps, stands at 1:54.23, while Ryan Lochte holds the world record at 1:54.00.

The moment Casas secured his spot on Team USA was unforgettable. After touching the wall, he wiped away the pool water—and perhaps a few tears—before embracing his teammate Carson Foster. He paused to savor the achievement.

“I’m going to make that damn team,” Casas had declared before the qualifying meet in Indianapolis. Reflecting on his journey, he added, “I wish I could go back and have a conversation with myself — I might slap myself because I wouldn’t want to hear it. But things happen. There are pivotal moments that teach you a lot and shape who you are.”

With his experiences shaping him into the person and athlete he is today, Casas heads to Paris with confidence and determination, ready to achieve greatness and bring home a medal for his country, state, and hometown.