This weekend marks the start of one of Flint’s most cherished traditions as the 68th CANUSA Games officially get underway! For nearly seven decades, this event has celebrated the enduring friendship between Flint, Michigan, and Hamilton, Ontario, bringing together young athletes, families, and communities from both sides of the border.

The festivities kicked off Friday evening at Dort Financial Arena, where buses full of excited Canadian athletes rolled in to a warm welcome from their American competitors and the host families they’ll be staying with throughout the weekend. For many athletes, it’s more than a sporting event, it’s the beginning of lifelong friendships.

Opening ceremonies honored the traditions that have defined CANUSA since 1958. The Presentation of Colors set the stage before athletes proudly paraded into the arena, waving American and Canadian flags as families cheered them on. Local musicians performed both “O Canada” and “The Star-Spangled Banner,” celebrating the partnership between our two nations.

This year’s ceremony featured a pair of inspiring special guests with deep CANUSA roots.

Mayor Sheldon Neeley, who once competed in the Games as an athlete before later returning as a coach, welcomed participants in his current role as Mayor of the City of Flint. Reflecting on the event’s lasting impact, Mayor Neeley shared, “The bond we have between our two countries is very rich,” reminding everyone that CANUSA is about much more than competition.

Also taking the stage was Tanys Edwards, a former CANUSA athlete who has gone on to build an impressive career in professional basketball, including playing and coaching in the WNBA. Her journey served as a powerful reminder that big dreams often begin with small opportunities, and that CANUSA has been launching young athletes toward bright futures for generations.

One of the evening’s most meaningful traditions came as athletes recited the CANUSA Oath before gathering to witness the lighting of the ceremonial flame.

This year’s honor belonged to the Daly family, whose connection to the Games stretches back to the very beginning. Dick Daly, who helped found the CANUSA Games 68 years ago, passed away in 2015. This year’s torch lighting was dedicated to his wife, Margaret Daly, who passed away earlier this year. The Daly family continues to be an integral part of the CANUSA tradition, faithfully supporting the Games every year since their inception. Continuing that legacy, Chris “Rooster” Daly will serve as emcee for Sunday’s Closing Ceremonies.

With the flame officially lit, athletes headed home with their billets, the CANUSA term for the host families who open their homes to visiting athletes throughout the weekend. These host families are truly the heart of the Games, creating memories and friendships that often last long after the final whistle.

Competition begins Friday evening and continues throughout Saturday across a variety of sports. Then on Sunday, everyone will gather one last time for the Closing Ceremonies, where champions will be recognized, trophies awarded, and plenty of hugs exchanged as we say goodbye to our Canadian friends, both old and new.