Mackenzie Downing Named Flag Bearer for FISU Games

UVPCS swimmer and Vikes alumni Mackenzie Downing was announced as the flag-bearer for the Opening Ceremonies of the FISU Games in Shenzhen, China, this Friday night.  The Opening Ceremony will launch the start of the World University Games, which is comprised of athletes from over 150 countries, with Canada being represented by 349 athletes, an all-time high for FISUs.

Downing is the first Vikes athlete to be made flag-bearer at a Universiade, after an illustrious career with the Vikes including 21 CIS medals, twice being named Vikes Athlete of the Year, and winning the prestigious Presidents Cup, which combines Scholastic Achievement and Athletic Ability. 

When asked about the honour, Downing had this to say: “I can’t tell you how proud and excited I am to have been chosen to represent Canadian student-athletes at the opening ceremonies. I’m especially proud to represent my teammates from the swim team, many of whom I’ve known and have travelled with around the world for a number of years.”

Downing will be competing in the meet, which starts Saturday, alongside UVPCS and current Vikes swimmer Nick Sinclair.

Read more at the Swim Canada webiste.