Ryan Mariner Downing

November 29, 1983 - December 5, 1996

From the age of 4 Ryan was a fiercely proud member of the Whitehorse Glacier Bears Swim Club. His love of swimming competition was complete. You could not be around Ryan without becoming dedicated to the team. He worked hard every length, never missed a practice and win or lose, he loved to race for the sheer joy of it.

On 5 December 1996, one week after his 13th birthday Ryan collapsed in gym class due to a problem with his heart. Ryan, may your love of competition be shared and enjoyed by generations of aspiring Yukon swimmers.