Regina, SK (February 19, 2023) – At 9 AM this morning, the Scotiabank Torch Relay kicked off at the University of Regina - Centre for Kinesiology, Health and Sport Foyer. The torch relay consisted of 10 stops across the City of Regina and 11 Torch Bearers (please see participant list below). The torch made its way from the University of Regina, toward the First Nations University circle, through Wascana Park. Exchange four took place at the Kwakiutl Totem Pole onward to the Legislature Building. From the Legislature Building, the torch continued through the Cathedral Neighbourhood towards Mosaic Stadium. The Sask Energy Cauldron was set up outside the Brandt Centre building. Two Team Regina athletes walked up the cauldron steps and lit the cauldron to signify the start of the Games. The Honourable Gene Makowsky, Minister of Social Services and Chairperson Valerie Sluth, 2023 Saskatchewan Winter Games declared the Games open! At 6:30 PM the 2023 Saskatchewan Winter Games Opening Ceremony presented by SaskTel kicked off at the University of Regina, Gym 3! The athletes were all smiles and an energetic crowd was brought to its feet. Combining local talent from across Saskatchewan, including performances by Teagan Littlechief, Donny Parenteau, and Terrance Littletent made it a night to remember! In addition, the Arcana Kings performed Here We Go, which is the official song for the Games. With a lively start, the 25th edition and 50th year of the Saskatchewan Games is now underway with over 1,400 participants from every corner of the province, competing in 16 different sports and representing nine provincial districts, over seven days of competition! Quotes “It was a true team effort to bring the vision of the Opening Ceremony to life! I would like to highlight the wonderful work of everyone involved. The Opening Ceremony really showcased community comes together and celebrates an incredible provincial event. Our goal was to bring our Games values to life” said Erin Lord, VP of Ceremonies and Culture for the 2023 Saskatchewan Winter Games. “The opening ceremony was spectacular and truly set the tone for the Games. These multi-sport Games are meant for everyone, and really welcomed not only our participants but also the City of Regina. Thank you to everyone that came out and made tonight a night to remember” said Alison Brown, Co-Chair of the 2023 Saskatchewan Winter Games. Torch Bearers 2023 Saskatchewan Winter Games Social Channels: Saskatchewan Games Council Social Channels: About the Saskatchewan Games: First established in 1972, the purpose of the Saskatchewan Games is to provide an opportunity for the province’s developing athletes, coaches and officials to participate in an exciting multi-sport event in preparation for a higher level of competition. Countless Saskatchewan Games alumni have advanced to competition at the national level and beyond, with Olympians such as Emily Clarke, Marsha Hudey and Lucas Makowsky counting the Saskatchewan Winter Games as a key step in their journey to the highest levels of sport. The Saskatchewan Games also leave behind valuable legacies that benefit each host community for years to come. To learn more, visit http://www.saskgames.ca. Content: ### Media Contact:
Facebook: 2023 Saskatchewan Winter Games Regina
Twitter: @2023saskgames
Instagram: @2023saskgames
Facebook: Saskatchewan Games
Twitter: @saskgames
Instagram: @saskatchewangames
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Ashley Dennison
Games Services and Communications Lead
Saskatchewan Games Council
306-570-2525
adennison@saskgames.ca
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