The Native Youth Olympics in Anchorage, Alaska, is not your typical sporting event. It pays tribute to the skills and techniques used by Alaska Native ancestors to survive in the harsh polar climate. Athletes gather to compete in events like the stick pull, which mimics holding onto a slippery seal, and the four-step broad jump, which replicates leaping across ice floes.
Nicole Johnson, a decorated Native athlete, emphasized the importance of preserving culture and heritage through these games. She herself has won over 100 medals and held a world record in the two-foot high kick. Colton Paul, a Yupik athlete, set a world record in the scissors broad jump last year and continues to impress with his skills.
For athletes like Awaluk Nichols, participating in the Native Youth Olympics is a way to connect with their heritage and keep traditions alive. The events not only test physical abilities but also mental strength and teamwork. The wrist carry competition, for example, challenges participants to hang onto a stick while teammates run around a track, simulating the endurance needed for a nomadic lifestyle.
As these young athletes showcase their talents and honor their ancestors, the Native Youth Olympics serve as a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of Alaska Native communities. The games not only celebrate athleticism but also the rich cultural history of the region.