2008 North American Indigenous Games

Every three years, Indigenous peoples from across North America come together to celebrate their diverse cultures and sporting excellence at the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG). In 2008, the Games will be hosted by the Cowichan Tribes on Vancouver Island, BC.

The goal of the North American Indigenous Games is to improve the quality of life for Indigenous peoples by supporting self-determined sport and cultural activities. This can be achieved by encouraging equal access to participation in the social and cultural fabric of the community they reside in and which respects Indigenous distinctiveness.

Like the Winter Games, the North American Indigenous Games are a celebration of both sport and culture. More than 3,000 people will take part in Games cultural activities. In addition to the Opening and Closing ceremonies and the interactive cultural village, NAIG organizers are also planning the largest ever Tribal Journeys Canoe Regatta with up to 80 canoes taking part.

It will be a week of friendly and intense competition. More than 6,000 athletes from across North America will compete in events including archery, baseball, basketball, boxing, canoe racing, golf, lacrosse, shooting, soccer, softball, swimming, Tae Kwon Do, track and field, volleyball and wrestling. Athletes will also compete in traditional events such as war canoe racing and hoop dancing.

The 2008 North American Indigenous Games will be held from August 2 to 10, 2008 in Cowichan, BC.