The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, and the Honourable Patty Pottle, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, today congratulated the 44 athletes who represented Newfoundland and Labrador at the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) and brought home a total of 18 medals.

"These athletes are to be commended and can be proud of how well they represented our province," said Minister Jackman. "This is the first time Newfoundland and Labrador participated in the games and with a total of 18 medals the team certainly made an impressive debut."

"All of Newfoundland and Labrador can take pride in the outstanding accomplishments of these young men and women," said Minister Pottle. "As Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, I continue to be inspired by the achievements of our Aboriginal youth. This remarkable achievement by our athletes during their first appearance at these games sets a high benchmark for future athletes who will no doubt welcome the challenge."

The games, which were held in Cowichan Valley, British Columbia, and concluded on August 10, included 16 contemporary and traditional sporting events. Team Newfoundland and Labrador competed in four of those events (volleyball, badminton, athletics and golf) and brought home medals in three of the four sports.

Medal winners include:

Jerry Wetzel, chair of the board of directors for the Aboriginal Sport and Recreation Circle of Newfoundland and Labrador, said that these games provided an excellent opportunity for the Aboriginal athletes of our province.

"NAIG is a unique cultural and sporting experience for all participants," said Mr. Wetzel. "We are thankful for government�s support in making this opportunity possible for our young Aboriginal athletes and we couldn�t be more proud of each athlete�s showing at the games."

All the regions of North America were represented at the games, with 13 provincial and territorial teams from across Canada and as many as 20 teams from the United States participated. A total of 20,000 participants and spectators combined attended the event.

For more information about NAIG or to see a complete list of medal standings visit www.cowichan2008.com.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador provided $50,000 to assist with participation of this province�s athletes at NAIG.

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2008 08 13                                                     12:05 p.m.