Edmonton Hosts First Alberta Indigenous Games

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By Todd Curran
The first Alberta Indigenous Games will be held in Edmonton during the week of July 17th to 22nd, filled with nine sporting events for aboriginal youth between the ages of 12 to 18 years. The games will take place mainly at Coronation Park in Edmonton with canoeing taking place in Leduc and archery in Enoch.
The games were created following the cancellation of the North American Indigenous Games that were to have been held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The non-profit organization Edmonton Native Basketball Association (ENBA) felt that these games represent future leadership and life skills and that to cancel them would be a regrettable loss to the nations.
ENBA/AIG Board Member Ron Walker is a two-time Canadian Masters Shot Put and Discus Champion currently coaching at the St. Albert Track and Field Club. “Because of sport, I have had many doors open for me and opportunities present themselves,” says Ron. “I really feel a need to give this message out because my teenage and young man years were spent in the inner city area and were frequented with all the challenges it represents. I would like to spread the word that we can compete and succeed if we believe and make commitments to achievable goals”. This feeling is shared by ENBA/AIG board and committee.

Over 2000 attendees/ athletes are expected to spectate and participate in the friendly competition designed to encourage all to take part in what organizers hope will be an annual event.
The Games invite all nations, spectators, community volunteers and sponsors to show their support for Aboriginal youth and future leaders by enjoying this event.
Please visit:
www.indigenousgames.ca/alberta.