This news release was edited to correct the medal total.
The Government of Yukon congratulates all members of Team Yukon for proudly representing the territory at the 2023 Arctic Winter Games in Wood Buffalo, Alberta.
Over 350 athletes, coaches, cultural delegates and support staff travelled to Fort McMurray, between January 29 and February 4. Twenty sports were contested throughout the week-long multisport event which included cultural performances.
Team Yukon came first in the ulu count with 169, topping Alaska by 24. The team earned 61 gold, 57 silver and 51 bronze.
Arctic Sports athlete Amélie Guilbeault led Team Yukon into the closing ceremony. Guilbeault found the podium twice at the Games. She earned a gold ulu in the sledge jump and a silver in the Two Foot High Kick.
I am so proud of everything Team Yukon accomplished at the Arctic Winter Games. They inspired us with their sportsmanship, dedication, and skill. Congratulations to the athletes, coaches and cultural participants and thank you to the support staff and volunteers – all of you make the Arctic Winter Games a truly unique experience.
Minister of Community Services Richard Mostyn
This was such an amazing group. Everyone should be proud of their accomplishments and let’s keep this momentum going into PEI. Thank you to the 2023 Arctic Winter Games Host Society and the countless volunteers for their hospitality.
Chef de Mission Megan Cromarty
The Arctic Winter Games are held every two years. The Wood Buffalo games were postponed a year ago because of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19.
The Yukon beat its 2018 ulu count by 27, including winning 19 more golden ulus. Since at least 2008, this is the most ulus Team Yukon has won.
The Government of Yukon provided $460,000 plus an additional $80,000 to support Team Yukon’s participation in the Games.
The next Arctic Winter Games will be in 2024 in the Mat-Su Borough of Alaska.
Team Yukon will compete next at the 2023 Canada Winter Games in Prince Edward Island, February 18 to March 5, 2023.
Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-332-0615
matthew.cameron@yukon.ca
John Tonin
Communications, Community Services
867-334-5816
john.tonin@yukon.ca