For Varsity Blues rower Yosssef El Mays, a moment of shock led to an opportunity of a lifetime.
 
"I didn't believe it at first. It felt unreal for a while," said El Mays. "Once it sank in, I kept my routine the same but pushed my training harder this summer than I ever had before."
 
The sixth-year engineering science student from Calgary was off to Aichi-Nagoya, Japan to represent Lebanon at the 2026 Asian Games. A moment that he'd worked for for years and connected him to his roots. "Being on the start line in Aichi-Nagoya with the flag on my back is something I'll never forget."
 
EL Mays competed in the lightweight single race, qualifying for the B final and finishing the race in 7:46.52 for a fifth place finish. Lining up against some of the best scullers in Asia was described by El Mays as one of the highlights of the event. Outside of the boat, the opening ceremony, the athletes village and spending time with his family were all moments he cherished. "I met athletes from all over, learned about their cultures, and discovered sports I'd never heard of."
 
El Mays continues to work on improving every day, aspiring to continue to represent Lebanon on the world stage. "I'd love to represent Lebanon at the next FISU World University Games, the Arab Games, and eventually the World Rowing Championships. My immediate goal is to keep improving and make the A final at my next international regatta." Reflecting back on those who helped in his journey to Japan, El Mays is extremely grateful for those in his corner. "I'm really grateful to my family and coaches for their support. The Lebanese Olympic Committee and the Lebanese Rowing Federation, especially General Hassan Rustom. And a special thank you to Coach Tom Stevens for all his help this summer and for traveling with me to Japan for the competition."
 
Now, El Mays is taking what he learned on the national stage and applying it to the 2026 Varsity Blues rowing season. "Racing at this level showed me how the best athletes prepare, warm up, and race. They sweat the small details leading into their race, and then they race with a ferocity I hadn't seen before," he explained. "As captain of the lightweight team, I want to bring that standard back to our crew and race with the same focus at our university regattas this season."