1983 Summer Universiade
The 1983 Summer Universiade, also known as the 1983 World University Games or XII Summer Universiade, took place in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada between July 1 and 12, 1983. Over 2400 athletes from 73 countries participated. It was the first time Canada hosted these Games. Edmonton also hosted the 1978 Commonwealth Games.
| Host city | Edmonton, Canada |
|---|---|
| Nations | 73 |
| Athletes | 2,400 |
| Events | 118 in 10 sports |
| Opening | July 1, 1983 |
| Closing | July 12, 1983 |
| Opened by | Charles, Prince of Wales |
| Torch lighter | Jeanna Suzanne-Genrisson |
| Main venue | Commonwealth Stadium |
The event was marred by tragedy from the death of Soviet diver Sergei Chalibashvili when he died eight days after hitting his head on the 10 m diving platform in competition while attempting a reverse 3½ in the tuck position. The official mascot of the event was Wugie the Owl, his name is an acronym of World University Games in Edmonton, the Owl is the national bird of Alberta.
The Prince of Wales (now Charles III) opened the Universiade accompanied by the Princess of Wales (Diana), and other dignitaries and celebrities also visited.
In October 2005, Edmonton was selected as a potential bid candidate to host the 2011 Summer Universiade by the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS).