The Ochapowace First Nation, about 185 kilometers east of Regina, has more than doubled in population as it hosts an event that has been part of aboriginal history in Saskatchewan since 1974.
More than 3,000 aboriginal athletes from 71 First Nations have descended on the reserve for the First Nations Summer Games. The athletes are joined by hundreds of coaches, volunteers and, of course, spectators.
The games officially begin Monday night with the opening ceremonies. Games administrator, Tyler George, says the games are about competition, but they are also about culture and pride.
“It is really just for the youth to be together, to get together, to combine our nations and be one,” he said.
There is an athlete’s village, lots of new facilities and lots of upgrades to accommodate the games. George says at the end of the day, they don’t expect to make money, but they do expect to leave an impression.
“Honestly, I just want Ochapowace to grow more,” he said. “We want everyone to enjoy their stay out here and have a great experience.”
George says this will be the last year the events are hosted on a reserve. He says after this, the games will be hosted in larger cities.
The athletes will compete in seven different events, including team events like softball, and individual events like archery. Closing ceremonies will be held Friday afternoon.
Sixteen young athletes took part in the Lance run from the Muskoday First Nation to Ochapowace.