Parker Kenick Earns First in Alaskan High Kick at WEIO 2024, Sets Sight on World Record

Top: Parker Kenick extends his right foot to tap a ball tied to a string above the ground. The third-time participant in WEIO earned a score of 94 inches at the 2024 competition. Photo courtesy of Logan Hebel, used with permssion.

Parker Kenick, a 19-year-old from Nome, made his mark in the World Eskimo-Indian Olympics (WEIO), held in Fairbanks. After winning the Alaskan High Kick with a 94-inch kick, Kenick now aims to break the 96-inch world record set in 1984.

These games, rooted in traditional Arctic survival skills, include events like the Toe Kick, which simulates ice floe hopping. Kenick has shown significant improvement across multiple events since his WEIO debut in 2022.

With over a decade of experience in Native Youth Olympics and support from his university’s Native Games Club, Kenick combines strength training and technique refinement in his pursuit of excellence.

Beyond personal achievements, Kenick hopes to inspire healthier lifestyles and promote the connection between physical, mental, and cultural well-being in his community. His efforts contribute to preserving and celebrating Alaska’s unique indigenous traditions.

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