Welcome Aboriginal Athletes

One of the largest sporting events in North America got underway on August 3 as Premier Campbell welcomed athletes, coaches and cultural participants to the 2008 North American Indigenous Games. Close to 5,000 athletes as well as officials from across Canada and the U.S. took part in 14 sporting events throughout the Cowichan Valley. Team BC includes at least 425 athletes, coaches and managers. The opening ceremonies saw the arrival of the BC150 Cowichan 2008 Spirit Pole which will remain in the community as a permanent legacy of the Games.