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ARCTIC WIND RIDERS

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THROUGH SPORTS, NATURE, AND LOCAL ENERGY, 
FEEL THE EMPOWERMENT ON-THE-LAND

 
The arctic wind riders Smile
The Arctic Wind Riders SMILE!  ... "Easier Than You'd Imagine "... 
... First, get instructions from someone qualified ....  "In less than an hour, you'll be flying out the bay"  ...  Igloolik, Nunavut
... First, get instructions from someone qualified ....  "In less than an hour, you'll be flying out the bay"  ... 
Igloolik, Nunavut
...  get used to the kites with your friends ... Kimmirut, Nunavut
...  get used to the kites with your friends ...
Kimmirut, Nunavut
It doesn't take long to get the hang off-it
... It doesn't take long to get the hang off-it ...
Kimmirut, Nunavut
... your teacher will want to feel the breeze too ... Igloolik, Nunavut

... your teacher will want to feel the breeze too ...
Igloolik, Nunavut

... a local guide/hunter may assist you ...
... a local guide/hunter may assist you  ...
Kimmirut, Nunavut
... soon it will make you feel like you want to fly.
... soon, you'll feel like you want to fly ...
Grise Fjord, Nunavut
... get on skis, and start to navigate the wind ... Whale Cove, Nunavut
... get on skis, and start to navigate the wind ...
Whale Cove, Nunavut
... in no time you will be crossing the bay,    ....  and showing a large smile ... Whale Cove, Nunavut
... in no time, you will be crossing the bay with ... The SMILE ...
Whale Cove, Nunavut
...  The Smile... the one you can't stop shining when you get to master the wind ... Kangirsuk, Nunavik
...  The SMILE ...  you get when you master the wind ...
Kangirsuk, Nunavik
... once you get it... It happens each time you go back out  ... Iqaluit  Nunavut.
... Once you get it ... it happens each time you go back out ...
Iqaluit,  Nunavut.
... You may even start to enjoy powerful and gusty winds ... Inukjuak, Nunavik.

... You may even start to enjoy powerful and gusty winds ...
Inukjuak, Nunavik.

.... riders from many communities share the same spirit, ... Puvirnituq, Nunavik

... and meet riders from other communities who share the same spirit ...
Puvirnituq, Nunavik

... you may want to become a kite ski instructor ...  Iqaluit Nunavut

... You may want to become a kite ski instructor and a racer ...
Iqaluit, Nunavut

... on the weekend, you can now have fun sharing your passion with the family ... Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik 

... on the weekend, you'll start sharing your passion with the family ...
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik 

get the dog out for a ride ... Kangirsuk, Nunavik

... get the dog out for a ride ...
Kangirsuk, Nunavik

... or just get out there to peacefully ride for yourself.Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
... or just peacefully ride out for yourself, meditating ... at the end of the day ...
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
It's all about being in symbiosis with the land. The smile comes naturally
... it's all about being in symbiosis with the land.
The SMILE comes NATURALLY!   

welcome to the arctic wind riders

At Arctic Wind Riders, we've harnessed the power of sports, the beauty of nature, and the strength of local communities to create a movement that empowers Northern Canada. Discover a unique program where the wind becomes a source of empowerment on the land.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower individuals through sports, connect them with the raw beauty of nature, and tap into the boundless energy of local communities. Through the Arctic Wind Riders program, we aim to:

  1. Unlock Adventure: Introduce kite skiing as an exciting way to ride the Arctic winds across sea ice, tundra, and mountains.
  2. Nurture Leaders: Develop local skills and confidence, creating young leaders who can share their knowledge and compete at the highest level.
  3. Foster Growth: Provide technical and leadership development opportunities at local and regional levels, fueling personal and community growth.
  4. Equip Communities: Strengthen communities with expertise and specialized equipment, fostering sustainable development.
  5. Celebrate Unity: Organize an annual regional championship, uniting stakeholders in the celebration of sport and nature.
  6. Bridge Generations: Facilitate meaningful connections between experienced hunters and the next generation, promoting knowledge transfer.
  7. Empower Futures: Create new employment prospects for young people and establish eco-tourism attractions in their communities.
 
Feeling the wind power and learning to mange it is naturally empowering activity

Discovering wind power, and mastering the kite. An empowering experience to share.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Teaching your daughter the basics of sailing, which you just acquired. Kimmirut, Nunavut
Teaching your daughter the basics of sailing, which you just acquired.
Kimmirut, Nunavut
Rita Lucy
A local hockey player, learning to kite-ski in the morning and participating in all the events of the Championship which took place in her community. Inukjuak, Nunavik
A young blind student learns to feel the wind in the sail, assisted by a class friend during an initiation. Qikiqtarjuaq Nunavut
Assisted by a class friend during an initiation, a young blind student learns to feel the wind with the kite.
Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut
Mini Annahatak, a young student during her initiation and training to become the first kite-ski instructor in Nunavik. Kangirsuk, Nunavik.
A young student during her initiation and training to become the first kite-ski instructor in Nunavik,
Kangirsuk, Nunavik.
Eze Saggiaq and Peter Qissiq, focus on their evening ski descent. Kangiqsujuaq Nunavut
All charged up after their climbing, focusing on their evening ski descent. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavut
Pangnirtung Kite Ski Instructor Alex Killabuk demonstrates Olympic torch carrying during an initiation, Pond-Inlet, Nunavut.
Pangnirtung kite-ski Instructor Alex Killabuk demonstrates Olympic torch carrying during an initiation.
Pond-Inlet, Nunavut.
A young student in symbiosis with the elements in front of Beloeil Island and Mount Herodier near Pond Inlet, Nunavut.
A young student in symbiosis with the elements in front of Beloeil Island and Mount Herodier.
Pond Inlet, Nunavut.
Arctic Wind Riders

Regional Championships are strong motivational events for participants. AWR riders and team during a regional championship.
Kuujjuaq, Nunavik

STRENGTHENING HEALTH AND SELF-CONFIDENCE

Embrace the Empowerment On The Land

Arctic Wind Riders is more than just physical activity; it's a pathway to self-discovery, confidence, and empowerment on the land. We encourage young leaders to reach out to their peers, break down barriers to an active lifestyle, and become change-makers in their communities.

Supporting "For Youth by Youth" Initiatives

We collaborate with local and regional recreation departments, provincial and national youth engagement movements, and organizations dedicated to suicide and crime prevention. The program also contributed to promoting Participaction's national program in Nunavut, including the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.

Join us in experiencing the unique blend of sports, nature, and local energy that defines Arctic Wind Riders. Feel the empowerment on the land and become part of a brighter future for Northern Canada.

Video: Short flight over some participating communities

 
Action is building up in front of Kangiqsujuaq kite ski club house. Nunavut
Action is building up in front of the kite-ski clubhouse.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Leaving the school for the initiation on the bay. Pond Inlet Nunavut.

Leaving the school for the initiation on the bay.
Pond Inlet, Nunavut.

A group of youngsters eager to play with the colorful kites. Kimmirut, Nunavut
A group of youngsters eager to play with the colorful kites.
Kimmirut, Nunavut.
Initiation clinic with a group of students, Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

A very disciplined group learning the basics.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

First time feeling the kite, Kimmirut Nunavut
Feeling the kite for the first time.
Kimmirut, Nunavut
People gather down on the bay as the students begin their initiation

As students begin their initiation, more people gather on the bay.
Igloolik, Nunavut

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Eze Sagggiaq, an instructor from Kangiqsujuaq assisting a student.
Whale Cove, Nunavut
Getting the hang of it. Qikiktarjuaq Nunavut

Getting the hang of it!
Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut

The initiations attract many young people, some too young to use the kite this year but will be ready next year...
The initiations attract many young people, some too young to use the kite this year but will be ready next year... 
Igloolik, Nunavut
Community members are welcome on the ice and often bring; tea, bannick, and maktak to share with the young participants. Kangirsuk, Nunavik
Community members join on the ice to share arctic char and maktak.
Kangirsuk, Nunavik
Now with the skis for the first time
Now with the skis for the first time.
Igloolik, Nunavut
Members of the community join in and share some stories. Kangirsuk, Nunavik
Others share some stories during the
Kangirsuk, Nunavik
Joining a group of hunters and locals for a traditional gathering during a QIA annual youth conference. Igloolik, Nunavut
Joining a group of hunters and locals for a traditional gathering during a QIA annual youth conference.
Igloolik, Nunavut
t the end of an initiation period, leaning against the wind in front of Beloiel Island and mont Herodier 
Leaning against the wind in front of Beloiel Island and Mont Herodier.
Pond Inlet, Nunavut

Initiation camps

Explosion of Colors and Energy on the Bay, 

The week-long initiation camps are the cornerstone of our program's success. It's a week of activity for everyone, where participants learn sailing skills with a traction kite and alpine ski techniques to travel the land with the wind. Each day is divided into sessions, sometimes in 4 periods of 2 hours for groups of 10 students, depending on groups and wind conditions. The formula often includes a program coordinator/instructor, accompanied by one or two instructors from participating communities.

The initiation camps serve multiple purposes, whether is to launch the new kite-ski club, kick-start the spring season, or to bring energizing colors to a regional event. In addition to assisting the local club, our objective is to train two to four (2-4) emerging participants as instructors, ensuring that expertise is passed on within the community.

Creating a New Dynamic in the Community

Through daily initiation camp activities, AWR promotes a healthy and active lifestyle among young people. Demonstrations and races are enjoyed by playful minds of all ages. Community members are welcome on the ice and often bring tea, bannick, and maktak to share with the young participants. They particularly appreciate the display of colorful energy and its positive impact on the whole community. Video of initiation camps:  Whale Cove, Igloolik. Quikiqtarjuaq, Pangnirtung, Pond Inlet, Grise Fiord.

 
Alex Killabuk Kite-Skiing Instructor from Pangnirtung, initiates a young student in Resolute Bay, Nunavut

Alex Killabuk, a kite-ski instructor from Pangnirtung, initiates a young student.
Resolute Bay, Nunavut

Instructors prepare their kites

Instructors from various communities participate in a kite clinic, during a regional championship.
Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik

 

Learning kite trimming and adjustments 

Learning kite trimming and adjustments.
Kangiksujuaq Nunavik

Three proud kite-ski instructors, Wayne Putulik, Luke Kabluna from Whale Cove, Nunavut and Eze Saggiaq, Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

During the second-year initiation camp with new local kite-ski instructors, Wayne Putilik and Luke Kablona and with the co-lead instructor from Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik, Eze Saggiaq.
Whale Cove Nunavut

 

Eze Saggiaq explaining to the CBC North host, his involvement as an instructor in the Arctic Wind Riders program, and here as a competitor during the kite ski championships in Iqaluit Nunavut.

Eze Saggiaq, Kanigsujuaq,  with CBC North radio host during the championship.
Iqaluit Nunavut.

Nathalie Echalottt, a local worker, member of the Canadian Rangers, and a very involved kite ski instructor in Inukjuak, Nunavik

Nathalie Echalott, a local worker, member of the Canadian Rangers, and a very involved kite ski instructor.
Inukjuak, Nunavik

Minnie Annahatak, after crossing the 5 km wide Payne River for the first time by kite-ski at the end of her instructor training.
Kangirsuk, Nunavik. Click on the image to watch the video
The competitors, all instructors, participate in a ski maintenance clinic led by Eepa Quappik, an instructor from Pangnirtung, during the Nunavik Kite Ski Championships in Inujuak.

The competitors, all instructors, participate in a ski maintenance clinic on sharpening the edges of the skis led by Eepa Quappik, an instructor from Pangnirtung, during Championship
Inujuak, Nunavik

The competitors, all instructors, participate in a ski maintenance clinic led by Eepa Quappik, an instructor from Pangnirtung, during the Nunavik Kite Ski Championships in Inujuak.

Here, Jobie Anawetuk, an instructor from Kangiqsualujaq, leads the ski waxing clinic. 
Inukjuak, Nunavik

Aulla Qaunnaluk from Ivujivik, an instructor very involved in his community, receiving the prize for the participant who made the most progress during the championships taking place in Inukjuak, Nunavik

Receiving the prize for the participant who made the most progress during the championship, Aulla Qaunnaluk from Ivujivik, an instructor very involved in his community.
Inukjuak, Nunavik

a group of kite-ski instructors during a training camp,

No wind on Lac des Deux Montagnes, a group of kite-ski instructors during a training camp, get the chance to deepen their alpine skiing techniques in the Laurentians. Saint Sauveur, Quebec. 

Nunavik Instructors during a training camp on Lac des Deux Montagnes. Saint Placide, Quebec. Nathalie Echalook(1) and Qumangu Ningiuk (3) from Inukjuak with Traugott Annack (2) and Jobie Unaweenuk (4) from Kangiqsualujuaq. 

Nunavik Instructors during a training camp on Lac des Deux Montagnes. Saint Placide, Quebec. Nathalie Echalook(1) and Qumangu Ningiuk (3) from Inukjuak with Traugott Annack (2) and Jobie Unaweenuk (4) from Kangiqsualujuaq. 

Some dynamic kite-ski instructors from the Arctic Wind Riders program

Some dynamic kite-ski instructors from the Arctic Wind Riders program.

Instructor training

Leadership Development Opportunity 

Our instructor program reaches out to young people aged 14 to 25. Students who have acquired expertise in hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities in the winter are often the first to get involved and eager to share their passion and their knowledge of the ice, tides, local fauna, and best practice sites. By sharing their passion for this new sport, they develop leadership skills and become active and productive members of their community

Traveling with Hands-on Experiences

During our exciting initiation camps, enthusiastic facilitators emerge and receive valuable training advice from instructors. They have the opportunity to become certified instructors by attending our annual instructor clinic at the beginning of the season. Those most involved locally are invited as an instructor to co-lead initiation camps with a senior instructor in other communities where they continue to develop their skills in leadership and in the sport itself. 

 
Participants land their kites near the club's house on the beach in front of Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Participants land their kites on the beach near the kite-ski clubhouse.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Young people arrive to pick up their equipment at the tent which serves as a place to put on their ski boots, helmet and harness. Kimmirut. Nunavut

Young people arrive to pick up their equipment at the tent which serves as a place to put on their ski boots, helmet, and harness.
Kimmirut. Nunavut

Arrival of the equipment on the ice. Often equipment is kept dry and warm in the school gym or arena. Kimmirut, Nunavut

The arrival of the equipment on the ice. Often equipment is kept dry and warm in the school gym or arena.
Kimmirut, Nunavut

A meeting with local leaders, teachers and tour guides in preparation for the upcoming activity week..Kimmirut, Nunavut

A meeting with local leaders, teachers and tour guides in preparation for the upcoming activity week.
Kimmirut, Nunavut

In the beginning, training in the gym is a must to fully understand the construction and operation of sails. Umuijaq, Nunavik
In the beginning, training in the gym is a must to fully understand the construction and operation of sails.
Umuijaq, Nunavik
The following year some communities use a traditional tent on the ice. Kimmirut, Nunavik.

The following year some communities use a traditional tent on the ice.
Kimmirut, Nunavik.

Attached through the ice, a tent is very weather resistant and heats up quickly. Kangirsuk, Nunavik.

Attached through the ice, a tent is very weather resistant and heats up quickly.
Kangirsuk, Nunavik.

Alec Kudluck involved since the launch of the first kite ski club in his village in 2006. Kangirsuk, Nunavik.87
Alec Kudluck involved since the launch of the first kite ski club in his village in 2006.
Kangirsuk, Nunavik.
With the collaboration of the community hamlet, the school, and the Landholding Corporation, the clubhouse makes a big difference in local skills development.

With the collaboration of the community hamlet, the school, and the Landholding Corporation, the clubhouse makes a big difference in local skills development.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

There is more action in a club where the recreational director is involved. George Pillurtuut draws some young people who also want to take advantage of this beautiful energy. Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik

There is more action in a club where the recreational director is involved. George Pilurtuut draws some young people who also want to take advantage of this beautiful energy.
Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik

Young people play late with the kites during the launch of the club in Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Late kite-ski practice during the launch of the club.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Organization of local clubs

Local Capacity Development  

This is where the groundwork is laid: organizing care, acquiring expertise and sports equipment, and planning weekly programs of supervised activities for the season. Depending on the region, favorable conditions with safe snow and ice stretch between November and May. The club's equipment needs are planned well in advance to ensure delivery before the scheduled initiation camp. At the end of the week, in collaboration with the recreation department, we organize a work schedule and a budget, enabling new kite-ski instructors to continue their support throughout the season.

Regional Impact

Since 2006, the Arctic Wind Riders program has been introduced in twenty-six (26) northern communities in Canada, mainly in Nunavik and Nunavut. The initiation camps alone have reached approximately 4,000 students and young adults. All participating communities have developed technical and leadership skills by training two to four (2-4) instructors and have sufficient equipment to provide training and supervised practices in their community.

In Nunavik, the Kativik Regional Administration (KRG) has been managing the program with the communities since 2012. It offers support for the development of the local kite ski club with the supervision of a regional coordinator, sports equipment, and part-time salaries for local instructors who assist their Recreation Coordinator with recreational, after-school, and weekend activities.

 
Arctic Map (1)

PARTICIPATING COMMUNITIES 

Nunavik (Québec) :  Akulivik, Aupaluk, Inukjuak, Ivujivik, Kangiqsualujuaq, Kangiqsujuaq, Kangirsuk, Kuujjuarapik, Kuujjuaq, Puvirnituq, Quaqtaq, Salluit, Tasiujaq, Umiujaq et le Parc des Pingualuit.   Québec : Kawawachikamach

Nunavut : Arviat, Chesterfield Inlet, Grise Fjord, Igloolik, Iqaluit, Kimmirut, Pangnirtung, Pond Inlet, Qikiqtarjuaq, Resolute Bay, Whale Cove. 

Video : Short flight over some participating communities

 
Sandy Haukai from Kangirsuk flying out of the first gate during a long-distance race. Kangiqsujuaq, NunavikSandy Haukai flying out of the first gate during a long-distance race. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Sandy Haukai from Kangirsuk flying out of the first gate at the beginning of a triangle race.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Racers battle 25 knot winds on Hudson Bay near Inukjuak, Nunavik.
Racers battle 30-knot winds on Hudson Bay. Inukjuak, Nunavik.
Runners prepare their equipment for the next kite-ski race. Iqaluit, Nunavut
Getting the equipment ready for the next kite-ski race.
Iqaluit, Nunavut
Before the start, with the safe position used to make group stops. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Taking position on the starting line. "This stable and safe stand is used during excursions for group stops".
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
A start with the classic roster. Iqaluit, Nunavut
A start with the classic roster.
Iqaluit, Nunavut
The first kite ski championship takes place across the Payne River in front of Kangirsuk Nunavik.
The first kite ski championship takes place across the Payne River.
Kangirsuk Nunavik.
Veterans and young rookies pose in front of the clubhouse after completing three races in a row. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Veterans and young rookies resting in front of the clubhouse after completing three races in a row. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Runners in the distance on Frobisher Bay, the majority with their canopies in storm mode, during a long distance race in front of Iqaluit Nunavut.
Runners in the distance on Frobisher Bay, the majority with their kites in storm mode, during a long-distance race.
qaluit Nunavut.
A moment of relaxation before the afternoon races. Iqaluit, Nunavut
A moment of relaxation before the afternoon races. Iqaluit, Nunavut
The icy conditions with strong winds offer quite a challenge to the participants. Inukjuak. Nunavik
The icy conditions with strong winds offer quite a challenge to the participants.
Inukjuak. Nunavik
ompetitions, even in deep powder. Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik
Races are held even in deep powder.
Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik
In relax mode before the next race. During a day of races, with good wind conditions and a nice surface, runners can do 5 to 7 races of 2 to 10 km each. A very physical experience! Puvirnituk, Nunavik
In relax mode before the next race.  "During a day of races, with good wind conditions and a nice surface, runners can do 5 to 7 races of 2 to 10 km each. A very physical experience!"
Puvirnituk, Nunavik
Tommy Sakkualuk with the Arctic Wind Rider's smile. Inukjuak, Nunavik
Tommy Sakkualuk with the Arctic Wind Rider's smile.
Inukjuak, Nunavik
Sharpening and waxing clinic during championships. Inukjuak, Nunavik
Sharpening and waxing clinic during championships.
Inukjuak, Nunavik
Four representatives from Nunavik are participating in the Quebec Championships in Saint-Placide. Sandy Haukai and Alec Kudluk from Kangirsuk, and Peter Qissiq and Tommy Tuniq from Kangiqsujuaq.
Four representatives from Nunavik are participating in the Quebec Championships in Saint-Placide. Sandy Haukai and Alec Kudluk from Kangirsuk, and Peter Qissiq and Tommy Tuniq from Kangiqsujuaq.
Energy to spare with this talented and friendly cohort of Arctic Wind Riders. Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik
Energy to spare with this talented and friendly cohort of Arctic Wind Riders.
Kangiqsujuaq Nunavik
The community gathers with the racers at the award ceremony. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
The community gathers with the racers at the award ceremony.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Awards. Guy Laflamme, the founder of the AWR program, presents Raymond Koneac
Raymond Ningeocheak from Kuujjuarapik receives the prize for the participant who has demonstrated the most progress from program founder Guy Laflamme.  Peter Arngaq mc. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Participants sign the official banner of the Nunavik Kite-ski Championship. Kanqiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Participants sign the official banner of the Nunavik Kite-ski Championship.
Kanqiqsujuaq, Nunavik
The participants and the whole team during the kite-ski championships in Kuujjuaq, Nunavik
The participants and the whole team during the kite-ski championships
Kuujjuaq, Nunavik

Regional championships

The Arctic Wind Riders Event

Inuits are known to be very competitive in hockey, and now in kite-skiing too. The Arctic Wind Riders Championship is the most anticipated moment for instructors and the most competitive of the great family of "Inuit riders". it's an opportunity to meet other instructors from remote communities during a week of competitions. During this event, participants engage their competitive spirit and share their passion and it's a chance to develop new friendships, challenge their own limits, and deepen their knowledge through on-site training clinics. 

Specialized Clinics and Practical Workshops

Kite maintenance, kite safety configurations, and the importance of having a safe approach. Clinics also cover ski sharpening, waxing, and binding adjustments. During the championships, the teaching techniques are also practiced with young people from the local school and adults who come down to the bay to observe the activity, following an invitation on the airwaves of the local radio. Since 2007, 9 championships have been organized including Kangirsuk, 2008, Iqaluit 2009, Kuujjuaq 2010, Inukjuaq 2014, Puvirnituq 2016 et  Kangiqsujuaq 2012-13-15-18.

Post event video :  Iqaluit Championship    Kuujjuaq Championship

 

Opportunities to share local expertise

Answering Local Youth Needs

Kite-ski being practiced on the wide open bays, we often interact with passing-by hunters, who happen to like this new outdoor activity. In some communities we have to be escorted by guides/hunters to protect the kids from polar bears spotted close by, so they become part of the activities.  Since many young do not get the opportunity to get out on the land while others are just hooked up to their mobile, we collaborate with community hamlets, schools, and social services to coordinate projects bringing together experienced hunters and young people to share knowledge specific to their territory, ice, winds, and wildlife but also the opportunity to learn other traditional techniques and knowledge specific to the local Inuit culture.

Creating Rich Learning Experiences on the Land

In 2019, with Kangisujuaq Hamlet, Landholding Corporation,  Arsaniq school, social services, and local hunters, we planned a five-day excursion filled with on-the-land activities for nine young people, four girls, and five boys. Beginning with a 100km travel to a well-known fishing and hunting ground, participants had the opportunity to participate in igloo building, ptarmigan hunting, under-the-ice net fishing, preparing char and ptarmigan meals, visiting seal & goose hunting islands, combined with dog sledding, kite-skiing, downhill skiing, and fat-bike. 

 
 
Eepa Qappik carving downhill in Pangnirtung-1
Eepa Qappiq, in perfect balance, carving without poles in an improvised slalom course, during his 1st day of training.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut
Entrainement de ski alpin Pangnirtung, Nunavut

Alpine ski class in perfect natural conditions 
Pangnirtung, Nunavut

En préparation pour une démonstration de techniques de ski alpin.  Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut

Getting ready to take-on the downhill ski challenge 
Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut

Un étudiant applique les techniques de ski aplin dans un tracé de slalom. Igloolik, Nunavut
Practicing slalom with the school gym flags.
Igloolik, Nunavut
Peter et Eze en descente vers le lac. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Peter and EZE downhill on a steep slope behind the village.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
Two young students during alpine skiing training. Pangnirtung, NunavutDeux jeunes étudiantes lors d'un entrainement de ski alpin. Pangnirtung, Nunavut
Two young students during alpine skiing training.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut
A group of students finalize the ascent of the glacier near Grise Fiord, Nunavut
A group of students finalize the ascent of the glacier.
Grise Fiord, Nunavut
In Grise Fjord, the glacier lost more than 55% of its area between 1960 and 2016. "ICI Grand Nord" - Unprecedented melting. (click on the image to read the article.)
A group of young people practice the basic principles of alpine skiing by imitation during their first descent on the glacier. Grise Fjord, Nunavut
A group of young people practice the basic principles of alpine skiing by imitation during their first descent on the glacier.
Grise Fjord, Nunavut
An energizing walk-up in ski boots

An energizing walk-up in ski boots
Inukjuaq, Nunavik

Alex Kilabuk  carve comme un pro dans le tracé Pangnirtung Québec
In the evening, Alex Kilabuck carving like a pro in the slalom course on our 3rd outing of the day.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut

Alex, carving in front of the entrance to Auyuittuq National Park.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut

Alpine skiing!  Naturally!

Ideal Conditions 

During our visits to the communities, we strive to maximize the opportunities to learn and to remain active outside. Since the equipment for traction skiing requires boots and downhill skis, or even a snowboard, and since many communities have a favorable environment, the initiation to downhill skiing becomes natural, even a must in some communities. Much appreciated by young people, this activity also attracts many enthusiastic adults. In spring, with the presence of the sun until 10h-11h PM depending on the region, the practice of downhill skiing continues after supper.

Talent to Spare

Although alpine skiing is practiced when the wind is insufficient for the use of kites, many have acquired a remarkable level in a short time. Over the years, we have noticed that young Inuit demonstrate impressive athletic abilities to perform as high-level athletes from day one, whether in kite skiing or alpine skiing. Video : Pangnirtung, Grise Fiord, Igloolik

 
In front of one of the glaciers of Bylot Island east of Pond Inlet. Nunavut

In front of one of Bylot Island glaciers.
Pond Inlet, Nunavut

Within walking distance of the two hotels, an immensity of ice and snow where tradition and modernity meet. Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Within walking distance of the two hotels, an immensity of ice and snow where tradition and modernity meet.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Evening outing. Pamgnirtung, Nunavut
Evening outing.
Pangnirtung, Nunavut
KIte skiing in the mountains around Soper Lake, Kimmirut Nunavut
KIte skiing in the mountains around Soper Lake.
Kimmirut Nunavut
After a nice snowfall in the Fjord near Kimmirut, Nunavut.
After a nice snowfall in the Fjord.
Kimmirut, Nunavut
We perceive the end of the ice in the Fjord. Kimmirut. Nunavut
You can see the edge of the pack ice (floe edge) in the distance.
Kimmirut, Nunavut
Arrived at the floe edge, it's time to turn back. Kimmirut. Nunavut
Arrived at the floe edge, after an 18 km ride on a 12 km long fjord.
Kimmirut. Nunavut'
More than 15 km away, Bylot island exposes its peaks of 2000 m. Pond Inlet, Nunavut.
More than 15 km away, Bylot Island exposes its peaks of 2000 m.
Pond Inlet, Nunavut

wind vehicle for ecotourism

Majestic Territories to Discover

To explore the Arctic, traction kites and skis are the vehicles of choice for environmentally conscious travelers. Light and powerful, they color the present moment and leave no prints.  Up north,  exotic opportunities can be found simply in front of the community where the bay quickly leads to a fjord or on sea ice.  Browse the pictures from some of our favorite spots. 

Opportunities for Kite-Ski Instructors

Apart from working with Hamlet recreation services and with the school, kite-ski instructors have the opportunity to offer their service to visitors, workers coming up for a few weeks, the school, and local residents.  We offer support to local instructors to communicate their offer and organize their operation in collaboration with local Hamlet and economic development.

 
Exploring a unique section of the park near the canyons of the Puvirnituq River, Pingualuit, Nunavik Parks

How to Travel a Frozen Planet. A Moon-Like Experience
Exploring a unique section of the Pingualuit park near the canyons of the Puvirnituq River. 
Pingualuit, Nunavik Parks

After supper, in the mountains for a descent in downhill skiing, in front of the entrance to Parc des Pingualuit. Kangirsujuaq, Nunavik.

The entrance to Pingualuit Park, here from uphill near the Hudson Strait.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik.

Map of the route to the Pingualuit crater, Nunavik Park

Map of the route from Kangiqsujuaq to the Pingualuit crater. 
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

Meditate towards infinity. Nunavik Park
Meditate towards infinity.
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik
Along the route, Stock up on Arctic char
Along the route, between each camp, the guides take the opportunity to stock up on arctic char. Several are eaten the same evening by the group.
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik
Arrival at the top of the Pingualuit crater where nature offers us a superb solar halo or parhelion, locally called "sundog". Nunavik Park
Arrival at the top of the Pingualuit crater where nature offers us a superb solar halo or parhelion, locally called "sundog".
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik
Skiing the Pingualuit crater, Nunavik Park

Skiing the edge of Pingualuit crater. 
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik

It gets stepper as you progress.

It gets steeper the further you go.
Pingualuit crater, Nunavik

From the main camp near the crater towards the Puvirnituq River. Nunavik Park
From the main camp near the crater towards the Puvirnituq River.
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik
A warming tea and dried caribou stop. Nunavik Park.
A warming tea and dried caribou stop. 
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik
Skiing in the valleys and gorges. Nunavik Park
Skiing in the valleys and gorges. 
Pingualuit Park, Nunavik
Local expertise is essential for mussel fishing. Identifying the sector, choosing the right ice cream and the right place to make your mark is traditional knowledge.
Local expertise is essential for mussel fishing. 
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik
George Pilurtuut, guide, kite-ski instructor, and one of the main supporters of the program since its inception.
Kangiqsujuaq, Nunavik

pingualuit park Screenshot 2023-08-24 at 9.28.27 AM

Expanding the Eco-Tourism Offer               

In 2014, the first expedition to the crater made it possible to equip the facilities of the Park near the crater with kite skis and alpine skis to test the possibilities of the sector and allow young students and tourists who frequent it to practice these new activities.

Exploring, Skiing in the Crater, and Discovering Local Culture

In 2018, a small group excursion to Pinqualuit Park gives an idea of what you can find. Kite skiing back from the crater to Kangiqsujuaq over 4 days with wind conditions ranging from 10 to 40 knots, alpine descents in the crater, and various gorges along the way. Travels are always punctuated by stops to warm up, and for visitors, a unique chance to taste traditional food. Arctic char fishing is ubiquitous along the route.  Mussel fishing under the ice, a local delicacy that can be found just off the village, is accessible only with seasoned local guides.

 

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