Baker Lake (July 30/03) - Athletes heading to Baker Lake for the Kivalliq Summer Games, Aug. 13-18 better bring some bug spray.

According to Matthew Uqayuittuq, recreation coordinator, that is the worst time for mosquitos and black flies.

"I hope everything goes well. I tried to tell them to have them in July. August is the worst time for flies and mosquitos, but they were persistent," he said, referring to the organizing committee.

"I know they are going to have a good time, but they are going to be fighting the bugs."

Approximately 70 athletes from each of the Kivalliq communities are expected to converge on Baker for the event.

Represented communities are made up of teams of 10, each team split into age divisions.

The junior division consists of two males and two females aged 13 to 17.

Two males and two females on the team aged 18 to 45 make up the senior division.

The elder division consists of one male and one female from each team over the age of 45.

Each athlete will compete, not only for excellence in his or her own event, but, also, for the glory of the entire team.

Gold, silver and bronze medals will be given out for each of the 40 games that will be played over the five day period.

At the end of the games the team with the highest score will be named winner of the games.

"Last year it was Chester, they still have the trophy and will be bringing it with them," said Uqayuittuq.

As well a top female athlete and a top male athlete will be named.

Most communities have begun training for the games and Uqayuittuq said the athletes are in pretty good shape. On average, athletes compete in 23 events.

William Angotingoar, 18, is a competitor from Rankin Inlet.

He's no stranger to traditional games.

In the past he has competed in the Northern Games, the Winter Games and past summer games.

He said he usually has an average performance, but thinks that will improve this year.

He is confident he will come home with one or two medals this year from his events.