The North American Indigenous Games took place in Denver, Co from July 2-9, 2006. Many athletes took part in various sports ranging from archery to amateur boxing. Boxing Ontario had a total of 8 competitiors representing Ontario.
The golden boy, Tyler Kewayosh, netted gold at these games. Calling this “the biggest victory of his three year career”, Tyler truly deserved this champion title. Training out of the Kent Athletic Youth Organization (KAYO) and coached by Jamie Jefferson, Tyler spends a great deal of his time preparing for competition. Judging from his performance you would never know that his previous big triumph was at the 2004 Native American Boxing Championship.
“When he dedicates himself to any sport(boxing)…..he’s exceptional” says Floyd Porter, manager of KAYO.
At the games, Tyler competed in the open heavyweight division. Tyler captured the gold medal when his second fight was stopped by the referee in the third round.
Tyler truly emboidied the games’ motto: The Spirit. Strong. Brave.True
Keep an eye out Ontario………the champ is here!!!!
Other notable Ontario Indigeous Games competitors:
Girls 105lbs Weight Class Samantha Hennessy – The Underground Boxing Club (Gold Medal – Unopposed)
Girls 125lbs Weight Class Kara McLeod – Steeltown Boxing Club (Gold Medal – Unopposed)
Women’s Senior 165lbs Wieght Class Tracy Martin – (Gold Medal – Unopposed)
Zachary Gabrie – The Underground Boxing Club (Lost )
Men’s Senior 141 Weight Class Richard Menard – The Underground Boxing Club (Silver Medal)
In total Ontario athletes ranking second out of thiry three behind Saskatchewan brought home 90 medals (30 Gold, 33 Silver & 27 Bronze). The next Indigenous games will be held in 2008 in British Columbia.
