May 31, 2017
The 2017 World Indigenous Games Coming to Canada!
Edmonton is gearing up to host The 2017 World Indigenous Nations Games this July. Among the 29 countries participating in the games are Panama, Argentina, Tanzania, Canada and the United states. All gathering to participate in competitive sports and non-competitive demonstration events.
This will be Canada’s first time hosting the games, previously held in Brazil for the first time in 2015. The World Indigenous Nations Games are structured similarly to the Olympics but mix contemporary sports such as soccer, running, and swimming with traditional Indigenous events. For example, athletes will swim in a river and participate in sacred runs all while focusing on their connection with the environment. Fans can expect an action packed event with competitions such as tug- of-war, canoe races, spear throw, and an archery competition where the target is a small fish, 40 meters away, and competitors aim for its eye!
The games will be an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous athletes from across the globe, but most importantly, an opportunity for the Indigenous people to come together and celebrate their identity, their culture and traditions.
Everyone is welcome to attend the 2017 World Indigenous Games taking place from July 2nd to July 9th in Edmonton!