CHARLIE HAOGAK

Charlie Haogak made it into the a rctic Winter g ames, having successfully completed the territorial trials for a rctic s ports in Inuvik. t his is the eighteen year old’s second time to the games, the first being two years ago in kenai, a laska. Charlie began practicing in arctic sports about eight years ago, learning by watching others. He also learnt from Yvonne Carpenter, a coach in Inuvik when he lived there.

“Whenever I get some gym time after that, I will do some practicing,” he said. Currently the main facility for youth is the gymnasium hall at s achs h arbour’s school. t he space is also used to host sewing classes and recreational activities organized by the hamlet and community corporation. d espite the inconveniences, Charlie is eager to go.

“I am excited,” he said, “the competition is good.” g etting together with hundreds of athletes will be a big change. He said, “I am the only one training in s achs Harbour right now.”

“I think my chances are pretty slim, but it will be fun. my best chance is the one-foot high kick.” His highest record for that category is 8 feet 8 inches.

“ to prepare I am going to eat healthy. n o pop, chips, or chocolate.”

The

By Markus Siivola