The Native Youth Olympics in Anchorage, Alaska, is a unique competition that celebrates the skills and techniques used by Alaska Native ancestors to survive in the harsh polar climate. The events at the competition include traditional games like the stick pull and a modified broad jump that mimic actions necessary for hunting and survival in the challenging environment. These games have been passed down through generations and now serve to preserve the culture and heritage of the Alaska Native people.
Nicole Johnson, a decorated Native athlete who has won over 100 medals at Native Olympic competitions, emphasized the importance of these games in preserving tradition and teaching the youth about their cultural heritage. She highlighted the significance of sharing their culture with others who want to learn more about Alaska Native people. Johnson also described the origins of some of the events, like the seal hop, which replicates the stealthy crawl ancestors used during hunts to approach napping seals on the ice.
Athletes at the Native Youth Olympics, such as Colton Paul, showcase impressive feats of strength and agility in events like the scissors broad jump. Paul, a Yupik athlete from Kipnuk, set a world record in the event last year and continues to display his skills even after graduating from high school. He expressed his passion for the sport and the connection he feels to his ancestors who relied on similar skills for survival. Another participant, Awaluk Nichols, emphasized the importance of the games in reconnecting with her Inupiaq heritage and maintaining cultural traditions in the modern age.
The Native Youth Olympics not only test physical abilities but also mental fortitude, as seen in events like the wrist carry, which requires teamwork and endurance. Participants engage in activities that emulate the strength and resilience needed by their ancestors in a nomadic lifestyle. The competition serves as a reminder of the traditions and lifestyle of the past, keeping the cultural heritage alive for the next generation. Many participants feel a deep sense of connection to their ancestors and take pride in continuing their legacy through these traditional games.
The youth games provide an opportunity for Alaska Native athletes to come together, celebrate their heritage, and compete in a unique sporting event that sets them apart from traditional sports. The camaraderie and sense of community at the Native Youth Olympics strengthen cultural bonds and traditions among participants. By engaging in these traditional games, young athletes like Nichols and Paul can honor the legacy of their ancestors and find a deep sense of belonging and pride in their cultural heritage. The competition serves as a platform for Alaska Native youth to celebrate their roots and showcase their skills in a setting that embraces and honors their traditions.
