Ten youth from James Smith Cree Nation are en route to Prince Albert Wednesday participating in the sacred tradition of the lance run. They travelled on foot from Saskatoon to Rosthern on Tuesday and then to Prince Albert today (Wed), expecting to arrive around 6 p.m. with their final goal being La Ronge. They are fulfilling the tradition of clearing a path for First Nation athletes to the Tony Cote Summer Games.

James Smith hosted the games in Saskatoon in July 2022. As the last community to host the games, they are tasked with clearing the path to the next host community. The youth will run and walk with the lance almost 400 kilometres to Treaty 8 territory, where the Lac La Ronge Indian Band has prepared venues for the games.

Youth from La Ronge are assisting with the lance to learn the ropes and will take up the mantle at the next Tony Cote Summer games. The Lac La Ronge Indian Band will play host to the multi-sport event from August 10 – 16.

James Smith Cree Nation Chief Kirby Constant describes the Tony Cote Summer Games’ Lance Run as setting a safe path for those coming to the games next week. In a news release, the Chief said this is an important event for James Smith youth “because it marks a new era of positive changes in our Nation. We are very proud of our youth who dedicated their time to practice and train for their events. They are shining examples to their peers, demonstrating the dedication and discipline needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”