The Algonquians invented lacrosse, and the Hopis ran long distances, but if you try to think of a Native American Olympian, not many come to mind.
Billy Mills of the Sioux tribe is one of the most famous when he won the 10,000 meter run in 1964.
In fact, as we reported here on The Show last year, since the start of the games through 2010, there have been 43 Olympic athletes who identify as Native American or Aboriginal Canadian.
But this weekend, here in the Valley, more than 3,200 athletes will come together to celebrate that long history.
The Lori Piestewa National Native American Games is in its 15th year and starts on Saturday at venues all over the East Valley.
For more on this, The Show’s Lauren Gilger sat down with Gary Nees, senior director of operations for the Arizona Sports and Entertainment Commission.
