68th Annual CANUSA Games Return to Flint

FLINT, Michigan — Hundreds of youth athletes from Flint’s Sister City of Hamilton, Ontario, will arrive by bus August 7-9 for the 68th playing of the CANUSA Games, highlighting the longest-running international friendship competition in North America. The event is organized by the Crim Fitness Foundation and the Greater Flint Olympian and CANUSA Association.

Young athletes will compete in as many as 26 sports across dozens of locations throughout Genesee County, including basketball, track, bowling, baseball, soccer, flag football, skeet shooting, swimming, and volleyball.

“We are so excited to host our counterparts from our Sister City of Hamilton. These games are about so much more than sports. They are about connection and cultural exchange, they build friendships. Kids can gain confidence and be part of something bigger than themselves,” Crim CEO Lauren Holaly-Zembo said. “On behalf of everyone who makes CANUSA possible, I am very proud that youth from Flint and Genesee County can continue to participate in this great tradition.”

Festivities kick off with opening ceremonies following the Canadian athletes’ arrival, including the National Anthems and a presentation of the Friendship Trophy from Flint Mayor Sheldon Neely to the visiting city’s mayor. Closing ceremonies will follow at the end of the weekend to determine which nation wins the overall competition.

A signature feature of the Games is the host-family exchange, in which Flint-area families welcome a visiting athlete into their home for the weekend.

Crim Sport Director Traci Pigot encouraged CANUSA alumni, volunteers, and spectators to get involved and support the event, expressing, “if you are a CANUSA alumnus, would like to volunteer, or would just like to spectate, we’d love to have you come out and support.”

You can visit the Crim’s CANUSA website for more information.