Today is the last day of competition at the 2006 North American Indigenous Games in Denver, Colorado.

A reported 7,000 Native athletes from the U.S. and Canada have been competing all week. Some teams, like the 80 from Laguna Pueblo in New Mexico, walked away with more than 11 medals in cross-country events.

While medals are a goal, many players are there to represent their culture and their people. For the Team Ontario lacrosse team, the sport represents their blood and heritage.

Closing ceremonies for the games take place on Saturday.

Get the Story:
Teams and traditions (The Denver Post 7/7)
A guiding light (The Denver Post 7/7)

Relevant Links:
North American Indigenous Games - http://www.naig2006.com

Related Stories:
Thousands of athletes compete at Indigenous Games (7/6)
Jodi Rave: Indigenous Games kick off in Colorado (07/04)
Jodi Rave: Indigenous Games propel indigenous rights (07/03)
Jodi Rave: Athletes ready for 2006 Indigenous Games (06/12)