Sports and Recreation
There has been increasing interest among Métis people to provide
organized team and individual sports for their youth. Most existing
recreational activities include traditional voyageurs games played at
gatherings like the Hivernant Rendezvous. One of the most common forms
of recreation for all ages of Métis is dancing.
Traditional voyageurs games include a series of events that test the
skills that would have been needed by the voyagers. These events include
the 540-pound sack carry, 180-pound sack carry, cream can carry, and
300-pound pole carry. The winners of these competitions are determined
by the speed and distance the individual completes the task.
Added to these activities is the sling shot event and the hatchet
throw. Other activities include paddling long distances and completing a
series of portages.
There are also organized traditional dance groups like the Edmonton
Métis Cultural Dance Society that was organized to promote traditional
dances and music. It is their goal to preserve the unique character of
Métis dance and to teach the dances to younger generations. When called
upon, they also travel to events to share the Métis culture.
Many of the cultural, sport and recreational activities of the Métis
people today serve the function of preserving, promoting, and teaching
others their traditions and culture.
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