As the flame of the Arctic Winter Games is ignited in Whitehorse, Yukon, the emotions run high for three remarkable women: Aaka Tobiassen Karlsen, Kirstine Sigurdsen, and Paninnguaq Amossen Qvist. Each step they take during the opening ceremony is filled with pride and anticipation, as they prepare to represent Greenland in the Dene Games.
But these three are not in it alone. Paninnguaq is accompanied by her two children, Petra and Inunnguaq Amossen, who will also compete in Arctic Sports. Kirstine’s daughter, Niina N. Sigurdsen, and Aaka’s daughter, Aili Tobiassen, will join them in representing their heritage in this prestigious event.
Emotions on Display
The moment of selection was one they will never forget, revealed during a competition in Uummannaq at the end of October.
“My daughter was overjoyed,” Kirstine recalls, her voice rich with emotion. “I didn’t know how to react—I was tearing up one moment and laughing the next. It was truly special.”
For Paninnguaq and her children, the joy was nearly overwhelming. While they anticipated Petra’s selection, when Paninnguaq’s name resonated over the loudspeaker followed by Inunnguaq’s, tears of happiness flowed freely.
“We cried tears of joy. I was close to being drafted in the past, but chose not to compete when my kids were younger. I was part of the squad in 2016, 2018, and 2020, but this is something else,” she explained.
Aaka echoed the sentiments of her fellow competitors, sharing the depth of her joy. “It’s hard to express in words. This is a goal for both my daughter and me, and now we’re realizing it.”
Preparing Mentally
In both Arctic Sports and Dene Games, success can hinge on brief moments of competition, often lasting just seconds. Recognizing the need for mental fortitude, both women have developed personal approaches to their preparation.
“I focus on my current form and abilities rather than on results,” Kirstine shares. “I take time to tune into myself, relaxing a bit before it’s my turn.”
Paninnguaq agrees, emphasizing mutual support. “We uplift each other, as technique is vital in our sport. It’s important to recognize areas for growth and to share knowledge within our community.”
Aaka, too, values mental preparation. “I aim to compete against myself. Rather than fixating on placements, my focus is on giving my best effort,” she states, her passion evident. “I also want to mention how I began this journey for my daughter, Aili. I’ve always encouraged her to aspire to the Arctic Winter Games, so competing together is incredibly meaningful.”
It’s worth noting that Aaka Tobiassen Karlsen made history as the first female medalist in the Dene Games, earning a bronze in 2024.
The 2026 Arctic Winter Games will unfold from March 8 to March 15 in Whitehorse, Yukon, gathering athletes from all corners of the North.