By JIN Xin
Published September 5, 2023
World University Games, that brought together 6 500 athletes from 113 countries and regions to compete in 269 events across 18 sports, ended at Chengdu Open Air Music Park on August 8, 2023.
With an unparalleled blend of athletic prowess and cultural resonance over a 12-day period, the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games that are organised by (Federation Internationale du Sport Universitaire (FISU) or International University Sports Federation in English not only shattered records but also embodied the spirit of achieving the seemingly impossible.
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Emmanuel Aupal, a 23-year-old Ugandan whose journey commenced in 2021 when he enthusiastically participated in the #Usportchallenge—a competition launched on the Chengdu 2021 official website and social media platforms that promised a coveted ticket to the Chengdu 2021 FISU World University Games for the fortunate winners, was among those in Chengdu.
Aupal’s submission, a 12-second workout video which garnered an astonishing 134 101 votes and an outpouring of encouraging comments, opened up new opportunities. The story behind his video was transformed into an audience-inspiring article that saw Aupal’s dream materialize in 2023 with support from the Chengdu 2021 Social Media Team and an anonymous sponsor.
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“I will never forget my first participation in the FISU World University Games. I created memories that will last a lifetime. My heart skips a beat whenever I hear someone mentioning the name ‘Chengdu’. Every place I go to in Uganda, they call me Mr Chengdu. If my heart were Earth, Chengdu would occupy 90% of it. I might be gone for long, but I will be back soon,” Aupal shared.
Throughout the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games, Aupal had the opportunity to visit various locales, including competition venues and cultural sites, while fully immersing himself in the FISU Games Village and the city. Making enduring friendships, expanding networks, and experiencing the hospitality and culture of Chengdu, Aupal’s heart was captivated by the city.
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Founded in 1949, FISU’s main responsibility is to supervise both Summer and Winter Universiades (World University Games) as well as the World University Championships.
