Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the participants who represented Team NT at the 2024 Canada 55+ Games. They were held in Quebec City from August 27th to 30th, 2024. The Canada 55+ Games provide an opportunity for Team NT to engage and compete with other athletes from across Canada. In addition to being an athletic competition, these games also provide an opportunity for participants to engage in other forms of competition and social activities with their peers.
Mr. Speaker, sports, recreation, and active living play a crucial role in promoting healthy individuals; a stronger, more connected community by addressing physical, mental, social, and an economic aspect of well-being. The Government of the Northwest Territories continues to support all residents, including seniors, by providing assistance to attend events like this in Canada 55+.
In August, Team NT was represented by 58 participants from five communities across the territories. Representation included three participants from Fort Simpson, 13 from Fort Smith, 8 from Hay River, 1 from Inuvik, and 36 from Yellowknife.
Team NT participants competed in various events, including ice hockey, pickle ball, table tennis, Scrabble, swimming, curling, cribbage, bowling, bridge, tennis, golf, 8-ball, and track and field. In total, Team NT brought home 14 medals, including five gold, four silver, and five bronze.
I would like to give special recognition to Wayne Guy of Yellowknife who won three medals in track and field including gold in long jump, a silver in the 50-meter race, another silver in the 100-meter race. I would also like to recognize Mike Pickles of Yellowknife who won gold and bronze in table tennis. And Joan and Dennis Bevington, a couple from Fort Smith, who brought home a bronze in tennis.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the various sports organizations who played such an important role in selecting and managing the teams who represented the territory. I would also like to extend a special gratitude to Team NT coordinator, Joan Hirons, for her outstanding efforts in organizing and supporting the team throughout the Games.
Finally, Mr. Speaker, I would like to sincerely thank the many volunteers and sponsors for their time and dedication in supporting this event. Whether you are a volunteer, an organizer, or someone who helped Team NT in any way, please know that your contribution to the team is greatly appreciated. I truly hope that everyone who participated in this event enjoyed themselves. Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.
