Looking To Create Swimming History, Chase Kalisz Confesses to Letting America Down in 2016

Chase Kalisz won the gold medal for Team USA in the 400-meter individual relay during the 2021 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. As Indianapolis prepares to host the 2024 U.S. Olympic Swim Trials at Lucas Oil Stadium in downtown Indianapolis within a few hours, Kalisz is hoping to earn a spot in his third Olympic games. Training in Colorado Springs under the guidance of his coach Bob Bowman, who famously coached Michael Phelps, Kalisz, is pushing himself to new limits.

As Kalisz sets his sights on the Paris Olympics, his journey through the trials in Indianapolis holds special significance. Reflecting on his history with Indianapolis, Kalisz recalls fond memories, including winning his first NCAA Championship and making his debut on the world championship team. Nevertheless, even though he has achieved success, there is a tinge of disappointment when he reflects on his reasons, for going to Paris suggesting that there may be a more personal narrative driving him.

From disappointment to redemption

Chase Kalisz’s journey to Olympic redemption began with a sense of disappointment at the 2016 Rio Games, where he clinched silver in the men’s 400-meter individual medley. Despite swimming faster than ever, Kalisz couldn’t shake the feeling of letting down his nation, particularly in a discipline where the United States boasts a rich legacy. In his words, “I do feel like I let the U.S. down in 2016, even though I swam faster there,” he said, of his silver in Rio de Janeiro. “The U.S. has a proud legacy [in the 400 IM]. This was my redemption story.”

But Tokyo 2020 offered him a shot at redemption, a chance to rewrite his narrative and reclaim glory for his country. The triumph in Tokyo, though exhilarating, unfolded in a subdued atmosphere due to pandemic restrictions. The lack of an audience cast a shadow over the festivities, prompting Kalisz to ponder the situation. However, his path originated in his years, which set the stage for his achievements in swimming.

Chase Kalisz’s journey from early beginnings to Paris

Chase Kalisz started his swimming career when he was 5 years old, guided by the coach Bob Bowman, at the North Baltimore Aquatic Club. Showing promise from an early age, Kalisz completed his high school education at Fallston High School in 2012. Although he fell short of qualifying for the Olympics at the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials, he made an impact at the Junior Pan Pacific Championships by setting records in both the 200 and 400 IM events.

Upon transitioning to collegiate swimming at the University of Georgia, Kalisz continued to shine winning NCAA titles in the 400-yard IM and gaining recognition as a talent in the medley. His success also extended to the arena, securing medals at competitions such as the FINA World Championships and Pan Pacific Championships. Excitement builds among both Kalisz and his fans with the Olympic Trials in Indianapolis on the horizon. Anticipation surrounds this event expected to attract record-breaking crowds as Kalisz aims to secure his place on the Paris-bound roster, driven by the chance for another shot, at success.