One of the largest sporting events in North America got underway August 3, 2008, as Premier Gordon Campbell welcomed athletes, coaches and cultural participants to the 2008 North American Indigenous Games.

The 2008 North American Indigenous Games ran from Aug. 3-10. Close to 5,000 athletes as well as officials from across Canada and the U.S. took part in 14 sporting events throughout the Cowichan Valley.

For a video of the opening of the 2008 North American Indigenous Games, click here.

Speaking at the opening of the 2008 North American Indigenous Games, Premier Gordon Campbell commented on the Spirit Pole, the NAIG icon representing Victory in Spirit.  The opening ceremony marked the final destination of the pole.