World’s first ‘Indigenous Olympics’ held in Brazil

From a very interesting article of AlJazeera English, just sharing with you: World’s first ‘Indigenous Olympics’ held in Brazil

The event is billed as a chance for indigenous groups from as far as Ethiopia and Mongolia to test their mettle.

Palmas, Brazil – Archers, wrestlers and runners from ethnic groups from around the world have descended on the Brazilian Amazon city of Palmas to take part in the world’s first Indigenous Games.

The sporting event, which is bringing together athletes from more than 20 countries, officially opens on 23 October and will run until 01 November.

Participants are competing in 10 sports ranging from running and swimming, to wrestling and football, as well as more traditional games like spear throwing and racing with heavy logs.

This is the first year that Brazil has opened its annual indigenous games to foreigners, giving it the flavor of what some describe as a low-key version of next year’s Summer Olympics, being staged in Rio de Janeiro.

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epa04994196 A New Zealander indigenous woman reacts as she takes part in a parade of the World Indigenous Games, in Palmas, Brazil, 24 October 2015. The multisport event, with over 2,000 participating indigenous athletes from 30 countries from all over world, runs until 01 November. EPA/FERNANDO BIZERRA JR.

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