Around 450 young indigenous athletes from across Manitoba are taking part in five sports — golf, basketball, archery, track and field, and ball hockey. Lacrosse is also being featured as a demonstration sport.

 

The Games officially opened yesterday with a ceremony at the Sagkeeng Arena Multiplex, featuring a grand entry led by Sagkeeng Elder and former Front Runner Patrick Bruyere, along with drummers and dancers from Sagkeeng High School.

 

Bruyere was one of ten First Nations athletes chosen in 1967 to carry the Pan American Games torch on an 800-kilometre journey from St. Paul, Minnesota, to Winnipeg.

 

Sagkeeng says the Games are about more than competition — they're an opportunity for youth to build relationships, represent their communities and take pride in their achievements.

 

The Nation has also invested in a new track-and-field area and upgrades to its lacrosse rink, leaving lasting recreational and wellness benefits for the community.

 

Cultural events continue throughout the week, including a traditional sweat today, a Round Dance Wednesday and a Much Dance Thursday.