McKiya Mazur | Canada's Ultimate Challenge Bio

NAME: McKiya Mazur
OCCUPATION: Hockey conditioning coach
AGE: 22
HOMETOWN: Russell, Man.

McKiya is a strength and conditioning coach from Russell, Manitoba, who trains hockey players. Growing up on a farm, she developed a love for animals, the outdoors, and a resilient and gritty attitude. Her determination was tested during her university hockey career when she was sidelined by a broken collarbone and a torn ACL.

For McKiya, every challenge is an opportunity to prove that drive and tenacity can carry her through anything.

What's driving you to take on Canada's Ultimate Challenge?

When I first heard about Canada's Ultimate Challenge, something inside me truly just knew that I had to do it and that if I was going to apply, I was going to make it.

I just finished playing university hockey for the past four years at a very high level. After university sports, I was feeling lost. Something called me to this challenge and I'm so glad it did because it truly was the most incredible and transformative experience of my life.

What unique skills will set you apart from the competition?

I think the biggest thing for me was my ability to stay calm in high-stress situations. My energy and positive self-talk help me a lot to get through things that seem insurmountable. 

How did you gear up for Canada's Ultimate Challenge?

Throughout the whole summer leading up to CANUC I was training for my first ever solo HYROX, as well as swimming as much as I could at my lake to prepare for anything! 

I think the biggest thing going into a competition like this is you want to be as versatile as possible so I tried to make sure that my endurance as well as my strength were as high as possible!

What do you fear the most in the competition?

Not being able to complete a challenge or letting my team down!

What's the toughest thing life has thrown you and how did it prepare you for this challenge?

Throughout my university hockey career, I struggled with some insane injuries; concussions, a broken collarbone and most recently tearing my ACL. These injuries were some of the darkest times during my university career, but they made me realize how much I value and appreciate movement. The freedom to move my body and to be able to look at any challenge, as a gift is really what these injuries have shown me. 

What's a random fact that people would be shocked to learn about you?

I've never watched The Breakfast Club and I can sleep standing up.

Canada's Ultimate Challenge comes to CBC Gem on Thursday, March 6.