Shawn Dingilius-Wallace, OLY, recently wrapped up two stops of the Swimming World Cup series in the United States and Canada. He began his journey on October 13, traveling to Chicago for the first leg of competition in Westmont, Illinois. At the FMC Natatorium, Shawn competed in the 50m Freestyle (October 17), 100m Freestyle (October 18), and 50m Butterfly (October 19).

The following week, he continued on to Toronto, Canada, for the next leg of the series held at the Toronto Pan Am Sport Centre. There, he swam the same three events: 50m Freestyle (October 23), 100m Freestyle (October 24), and 50m Butterfly (October 25). He returned home on October 26.

“I felt good about the meets overall,” Shawn said. “There were some solid swims in the 50s, and I’m hopeful the momentum will carry forward.”

Traveling with Shawn was Nicole Hayes, who represented Palau in the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Nicole supported team logistics and coordination throughout both meets. Shawn trained in the U.S. under Coach John Berry and Coach Carl Thomas, whose guidance helped him stay focused and consistent.

This World Cup series marks Palau’s first official entry into the World Aquatics Swimming World Cup — a meaningful step for the national swimming community. Shawn, Palau’s first male two-time Olympian (Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020), has continued to represent the country in international competitions, including past appearances in Berlin, Athens, Indianapolis, Carmel, Westmont, Toronto, the 2023 Pacific Games in Solomon Islands, Samoa 2019 Pacific Games, and the 2014 Micronesia Games in Pohnpei.

His participation reflects ongoing commitment to the sport and provides valuable experience for future athletes from Palau.