The Tony Cote First Nations Summer Games kick off this weekend.
Flying Dust First Nation is hosting the event this year.
“There’s delegations from 13 tribal councils, they are allocated 350 – that’s athletes, coaches and chaperones,” said Games Manager Clay DeBray. “When you add that all up, we are looking around that 4,000, 4,500 mark. Then you have to incorporate visitors, spectators, so we are planning for 5,000-6,000 people that will be attending the games here.”
Athletes will be competing in a wide variety of events, including softball, archery and canoeing.
“The games originated in 1974 and the purpose of it was to keep the youth active and give them healthy alternatives – and to lead healthy lifestyles,” said DeBray.
“From that time, it’s really progressed. On the athletics side, when it goes to the NAIG games, there’s a lot of evaluators that keep track of the athletes through these games, along with going into the Canada Games and whatnot.”
The Tony Cote First Nations Summer Games finish up next Friday.
For more information, you can check out the event’s website.
(PHOTO: Athletes at the 2018 Tony Cote First Nations Winter Games. File photo.)