N.L. Winter Games come to a close, with St. John's North reigning supreme

"It was a great experience to have," said Sydney Parsons, who played for the Central region's female basketball team. "Great memories, like, amazing. It was so much fun."

She spoke to CBC News at the closing ceremonies of the 2024 N.L. Winter Games. The week-long event was held in Gander and saw young athletes from across Newfoundland and Labrador converge in Gander to compete - and more importantly, have fun. 

Of the various regions competing, St. John's North won a total of 20 medals, as well as the Premier's Cup which is awarded to the team with the most points in the games. 

N.L. Winter Games co-chairs Tara Pollett and Geoff Goldsworthy say the event was a huge success. 

"Everything went really, really well," Pollett said. "Our volunteers have been amazing. The kids have been amazing, Parents and officials, coaches, everybody has been really responsive… It turned out to be a wonderful games. I've been hearing a lot of positive response."

"We had our share of hiccups, but behind the scenes we worked through everything," Goldsworthy said. "The events were amazing. I was there when the gold medal game for hockey was on. It was very great. Our wrestling medallistswere awesome. We had three skiers finished across the finish line exactly the same time in sportsmanship."

Saturday's closing ceremonies represented one last chance to celebrate before everyone went home.

"The athletes are pretty tired now," Goldsworthy said. "And I guess eager to get home and on the road and see their family and friends and so we're wishing them the best."

The N.L. Summer Games will take place in Bay Roberts in August. 

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