Kathleen Lippa
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Sep 01/03) - Annie Ikkidluak from Kimmirut is running like the wind. People vigorously shout "Go! Go!" in Inuktitut.

Ikkidluak made a great hit in the elders baseball game on Tuesday afternoon, and made it to first base, dodging a ball thrown at her back.

Although the wind picked up, the sky turned grey in Iqaluit, and it started raining,

the only sound you hear is laughter, encouraging cheers from crowds in front of Nakasuk school, and applause.

This gathering of elders organized by hamlet recreation directors and the elders centre in Iqaluit takes place each year either in Puvirnituq, Quebec, or Iqaluit.

About 80 elders are taking part this year.

Ooleepeeka Kelly watched the soccer game unfold on the grounds of Nakasuk school, with her baby, Malaya, 17 months.

Amazed by the sight, Ooleepeeka commented on the youthful vitality of the elders, along with the groups of young people who stood back or sat on the wooden stands, and let the elders have fun.

The elders gathering was held all last week in Iqaluit, and included a picnic on Wednesday out by the Iqaluit air strip, and a feast at the curling rink.