The 2014 North American Indigenous Games kicked off in style Sunday in Regina with opening ceremonies at Mosaic Stadium.
Those in attendance were treated to live music, cultural dancing and much more.
Games CEO Ron Crowe says overall things went smoothly.
“When you’re trying to usher in 4,600 people, it’s such a wonderful feeling to watch all of the athletes come in and everything to go without a hitch is just something else,” he says. “I’m just very proud of our team that put this opening ceremonies together – to the production, to all the crew that worked late and hard hours.”
Crowe says NAIG is about much more than the 3,600 athletes with a large contingent of volunteers and other support to ensure things run according to plan.
“They’re supported by another 1,000 coaches, chaperones and managers,” he says. “So, all in all, we have just under 5,000 people who will be responsible for feeding, housing and transporting them in and around Regina during the week of the games.
The games feature a variety of sports including lacrosse, soccer, softball and volleyball.
Competition in badminton and baseball begins Monday.
The games wrap up on Sunday July 27.