March 6, 2006 – The 2006 Arctic Winter Games kicked off in Kenai, Alaska, over the weekend.

Athletes from around the circumpolar world are competing in 20 sports such as dog-mushing, skiing, badminton and traditional aboriginal games.

Athletes come from northern Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Russia and Scandanavia.

There are approximately 2,000 athletes in the 19th Arctic Winter Games. The events are taking place in five communities in the Kenai Pennisula area.

Although many are gunning for one of the prized ulu medals, many participate simply for the chance to travel and meet people from other parts of the north.

Frank Tootoo, the director of Sport Nunavut, said his team has its eye on the sportsmanship award.

“My goal is to be running for the Hodgson trophy which goes to the team which exemplifies sportsmanship and fair play,” said Tootoo.

“I think that is something that we have won two of the last Arctic Winter Games, so that’s my goal.”

The Games, which are held every two years in different northern communities, run until March 11.