Across from Northmart in Iqaluit, the finish line for the first African-Carribbean Association of Nunavut (ACAN) Run was a hub of activity on Saturday, Aug. 24. There were bright colours and music as the growing crowd cheered on runners.
"The main thing is to show we're part of this community," said ACAN vice-president Kabelo Mokoena, "and to help support [it]. At the end of the day, this is what we're here for. As we get towards the end of summer, the good weather outside has us focus on health. A lot of people are struggling, some people can't say it out loud, but you come here and meet people who carry the same views as you... and you basically network.
"Tonight, we're going to have a multi-cultural celebration at the Franco-Centre. With lots of bands, local Inuit acts on the headline, as well as a deejay from South Korea. So that's Iqaluit! Everything is happening," Mokoena said.
"We do have a multi-cultural celebration every year. So this year we are combining this... it's an annual celebration that we have. We are all different, we look different, but guess what, when you go to the hospital... it doesn't matter the colour of your skin. So we are celebrating the same people, unique all together. So that's why we are doing this."
The three competitors in the 10-km race SA国际影视传媒� two from Iqaluit and one visiting from Iglulik SA国际影视传媒� crossed the finish line from 1-1:30 pm.
Derek Atenkeng wound up atop the field. He was closely followed by Alazar Letta.
Letta, who works for the city's recreation department, said he was taking part in the race "to encourage the community. It's not about money, it's about getting together for the same goal... I wanted to be a part of it."
Third place finisher Francois Arnatsiaq, who is in the capital until mid-September, said he was running "just to get a little something" for his pregnant wife, and that he "just wanted to join the running. I was interested in it."
