It is the first time since 2018 that Team Yukon has formed for an Arctic Winter Games. More than 350 athletes, coaches, cultural delegates and mission staff will make the trip to Wood Buffalo, Alberta, from January 29 to February 4 to represent the territory.
Twenty sports will be contested throughout the week-long games, including archery, which makes its Arctic Winter Games debut.
Wrestler Jaymi Hinchey will lead Team Yukon into the opening ceremonies as the flag bearer.
Hinchey wrestled in the 2022 Canada Summer Games and placed sixth in the country. She earned silver at the 2019 Western Canada Games and will represent the Yukon at the Canada Winter Games in judo. As a judoka, she is the current BC Provincial Judo Champion at 57 kilograms and was the first Yukoner to medal at the Elite 8 Nationals.
Representing the Yukon at a major games requires drive, hard work and determination. We are proud to support Yukon athletes as they compete in sporting events and develop as leaders, individuals and community members. Whether they beat a personal best, reach a goal, or earn an ulu, I hope every athlete competing at the games has the time of their life. Good luck everyone. I’ll be cheering you on in Wood Buffalo.
The Arctic Winter Games are an important opportunity for Yukoners to enjoy sport, compete to their highest ability, make friends and experience cultures from across the Arctic. I am proud of every athlete that will be representing Team Yukon. I’d also like to thank the coaches, officials, 2023 Host Society and volunteers who help make this unique event possible.
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From January 29 to February 4, Wood Buffalo, Alberta will welcome close to 2,000 participants for the 2023 Arctic Winter Games.
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The 2023 games will be the first time Arctic Winter Games competition in five years. The 2020 Games in Whitehorse were cancelled because of COVID-19. The Wood Buffalo, Games were postponed from 2022 to 2023.
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Archery will make its Arctic Winter Games debut featuring barebow and compound classes.
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The Government of Yukon contributed $465,000 to support Team Yukon’s attendance at the Arctic Winter Games.
Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-332-0615
matthew.cameron@yukon.ca
John Tonin
Communications, Community Services
867-334-5816
John.tonin@yukon.ca