N.W.T. Track and Field Championships Return to Hay River After Four-Year Hiatus
NorthOrganizers and participants in the N.W.T. Track and Field Championships in Hay River say it’s been great to have the event back after a four-year hiatus brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and then by flooding and wildfires. The competitive track and field event took place from Wednesday through Friday, drawing youth from across N.W.T. to compete.
Ten-year-old Yevah Chepelsky-Tetso, a first-time participant in the championships, expressed her excitement for the event, particularly enjoying the running aspect. For organizer JJ Hirst, the championships marked a significant milestone, bringing back memories of his own track and field experiences as a student. Despite the challenges posed by weather conditions, the energy and enthusiasm among participants and spectators remained high throughout the event.
With around 120 volunteers contributing approximately 2,000 person hours to make the championships happen, volunteer co-ordinator Dian Papineau Magill highlighted the joy and happiness the event brings to the community. The return of the N.W.T. Track and Field Championships to Hay River was seen as a much-needed boost after years of cancellations, providing a sense of unity and celebration for all involved.