(Fort McMurray, AB – October 6, 2020) – The Wood Buffalo 2022 Arctic Winter Games Host Society is pleased to unveil the official Games mascot, Nitotem the Lynx.
Nitotem, which means “my friend” in the Cree language, was originally illustrated by Sadie Antoine of Fort McMurray. Her design was the winning submission chosen out of over 40 entries in the mascot design contest held in the spring of 2020.
“We are excited to finally unveil Nitotem to the community as he is a very important part of not only the Games themselves, but all the events leading up to the big week,” said Kim Rizzi, General Manager of the Wood Buffalo 2022 Arctic Winter Games. “I am very proud of the Mascot design Sadie created and how it was brought to life by our dedicated team. We look forward to seeing Nitotem at events around the region sharing his excitement for the Games.”
The unveiling is paired with the launch of the Wood Buffalo 2022 Arctic Winter Games Mascot Program, which would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsor A.P.E. Maintenance Ltd. The Mascot Program will promote the Games while supporting education, culture and community engagement initiatives.
“As a locally owned company, it’s important to us to give back to the community in which we work and live. We are proud to be part of the region and look forward to seeing Nitotem bring joy to people in Wood Buffalo,” said Melanie Antoine, A.P.E. Maintenance Ltd.
The Host Society would like to recognize the efforts of the Wood Buffalo 2022 Arctic Winter Games Mascot Committee lead by local volunteer Co-chairs, Dave Stearman and Nabil Malik. Those interested in volunteering for the Games are encouraged to sign-up for the Wood Buffalo 2022 Arctic Winter Games Newsletter, launching this fall: https://mailchi.mp/awg2022/signup
The Arctic Winter Games is an international biennial celebration of circumpolar sports and culture. Taking place in Wood Buffalo from March 6-12, 2022, the Games will highlight the region and its culture through the spirit of sport to an international audience and visitors from around the world. The week-long event will see athletes from our own backyard and from international circumpolar North regions during their time to shine.
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Media Inquiries: communications@awg2022.org