After a 12-year break, the Kivalliq Summer Games made a comeback in Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut over the past weekend. Athletes competed in various Arctic Sports disciplines such as one-foot high kick, arm pull, and head pull. Russell Mullins, the hamlet’s recreation coordinator, was inspired to revive the games after coaching at the Arctic Winter Games this year. He noticed the heightened competition in Arctic Sports from other regions and aimed to kickstart Nunavut’s participation, starting locally.
A total of 26 athletes, with the youngest being 12 years old, participated in the games after over a month and a half of practice by the Chesterfield Inlet team. The younger athletes, in particular, were thrilled about being able to compete in events like head pull and arm pull for the first time.
The Kivalliq Inuit Association (KIA) sponsored the event, emphasizing the significance of bringing together athletes from Kivalliq communities through sports. Art Sateana, the acting communications manager, praised the games for showcasing talent, dedication, and teamwork, promoting unity among small community members through sports.
While acknowledging the challenges in organizing such events, Sateana echoed Mullins’ sentiment that the recent Arctic Winter Games had reignited interest in similar competitions. The NU Sport Board expressed excitement about collaborating with KIA and Kivalliq communities to further develop the games in the coming years, building on the momentum of this year’s successful event. They are optimistic about enhancing the games annually to reach their former prestige.