In a heartwarming display of sibling love and respect, the Walsh sisters and Shackell siblings made history at the U.S. Olympic swimming trials in Indianapolis.
Alex Shackell joined her brother Aaron on the U.S. team, while Alex Walsh and her younger sister Gretchen also qualified, marking the first sibling pairs on an American swim team since 2004.
Gretchen Walsh expressed her joy, saying, “It’s a dream come true…I’m so excited.” Alex Walsh, a Tokyo Olympics silver medalist, secured her spot after a suspenseful wait, saying, “I’m really happy to have booked my ticket…going with Gretchen was just a dream come true.”
The Shackells, who competed at Carmel High School, celebrated their own family achievement. Aaron won the men’s 400-meter freestyle, thanking his sister for her support.
Alex Shackell joined him on the team, finishing second in the women’s 200 butterfly. “We worked so hard…we know it’s going to be hard, and that’s why we’re so good at these big meets,” she said.
The siblings now look forward to Paris, where they’ll represent the U.S. together. When asked about living arrangements, Alex Walsh joked, “Gretchen and I roomed together at last year’s world championships…we know how to take our breaks and hit pause.” The siblings’ mutual admiration and respect have made this Olympic journey a truly special experience.