The World Eskimo-Indian Olympics (WEIO), a 54-year tradition celebrating Alaska Native culture, will take place July 15-18 in Fairbanks. Events at the Olympics, like the Alaskan High Kick, were originally survival skills but now showcase athleticism and culture. This year's Olympics will feature athletes competing in traditional sports as well as craftspeople and dancers performing.

1. 18 ALASKA BEYOND MAGAZINE JULY 2015
FAIRBANKS, AK
Culture and
Competition
The World Eskimo-
Indian Olympics, a
time-honored Alaska
tradition, will host
athletes for the 54th
time, July 15–18, in
Fairbanks. Featuring
activities that were
traditionally used to
teach survival skills, the
games are rich with
cultural significance.
This year’s events will
include the Alaskan
High Kick, which people
originally used to test
and maintain agility
during winter months.
Athletes begin seated,
holding one foot with
the opposite hand. They
then swing their bodies
up to kick a suspended
target. To finish, they
land on the same foot
used to kick the target.
An athlete competes in the
Alaskan High Kick at a past
year’s World Eskimo-Indian
Olympics.
Along with athletic
feats, the WEIO is known
for community spirit; it is
common for competitors
to receive coaching from
officials or other athletes.
WEIO events will
also involve craftspeople
showcasing talents, plus a
traditional-dance competi-
tion. To learn more, call
907-452-6646 or visit
weio.org. —Aliza Vaccher
JOURNAL