Local roots and international scope
This year marks an important step: we are expecting more international participants than ever, including 18 Rarámuris from Mexico and, for the first time, Maoris athletes from New Zealand. These delegations will join others from all over Canada, the United States and even as far as Alaska and Denmark, which shows how the scope of the games has extended.
“Seeing athletes coming from as far as Mexico, New Zealand and Alaska shows how important this gathering has become. It is a real celebration of the Aboriginal unit. »»
– Emily Goodwin, Marketing and Communication Stratege, Masters Aboriginal Games
Behind the scenes, the event represents an immense effort. Planning, which begins almost as soon as the previous games end, implies more than 100 volunteers, sports and sports managers, artists and community partners who work together for years to give life to the event. The management of logistics aspects, cultural protocols and the needs of athletes is not an easy task, but it is precisely this collaboration that gives all its meaning to the event.
An important role
For the participants, the games represent more than medals and sporting results. They allow them to celebrate well-being, to strengthen the links between communities and to honor the traditions transmitted from generation to generation.
“Each race, each match and each performance are anchored in culture. This is what makes masters indigenous games a unique event. »»
– Sonny Walton, Director of Marketing and Communications, Indigenous Sports and Wellness Ontario (ISWO)
By highlighting indigenous athletes of all ages, the games remind participants as well as to the public that sport is a practice of a lifetime and a bridge towards culture. Games are just as important for people who watch the tests. Anyone can attend competitions, explore the cultural village, encourage athletes or volunteer. This is an open invitation to learn, celebrate and be part of an expanding movement.
“Here we saw a wonderful opportunity to exchange directly with the athletes and to present them the career possibilities in Nav Canada. We look forward to meeting them and letting them know that their skills as anhletes (concentration, speed of mind and ability to perform under pressure) make them all designated to work in air traffic services. »»
– Phil Radok, manager, brand image, Nav Canada
