The Manitoba Indigenous Summer Games (MISG) set to kick off next week in Norway House Cree Nation have been rescheduled to the following year due to unforeseen circumstances.
Edward “Sonny” Albert, president of the MISG North host corporation, stated that a request for rescheduling was initiated by the hosting committee to the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports and Recreation Council on June 6. Following this, the council passed a motion on June 9 to defer the games to 2026. This decision was prompted by the ongoing wildfire emergency impacting participants and their communities, as well as the province-wide state of emergency.
The games were originally divided into two segments, with the first leg planned for Norway House from July 9 to 13, approximately 450 kilometers north of Winnipeg, and the second leg scheduled for August 17 to 23 in Sagkeeng First Nation, roughly 100 kilometers northeast of Winnipeg.
The event was expected to draw 2,000-4,000 athletes from the two host communities to compete across 16 different sports. Albert assured that efforts are underway to ensure the participation of those who were set to attend this year’s event in the rescheduled edition.
One primary concern raised by athletes, parents, and coaches online pertains to age eligibility. With the postponement to 2026, older athletes may no longer qualify. However, Albert mentioned that the age categories for 2026 will align with the North American Indigenous Games model, encompassing 18 and under and 15 and under categories, thus accommodating athletes who may have aged out under the previous MISG regulations.
Sagkeeng First Nation is spearheading a significant infrastructure project by installing a $600,000 rubberized track for the athletics competition, aiming to leave a lasting legacy for the community.
According to Indigenous Services Canada, as of July 2, four First Nations in Manitoba have been evacuated, and two more have been impacted by wildfires. The MISG planning committee, in collaboration with the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports and Recreation Council, will soon finalize the new dates for the games.
