KAYENTA, AZ — Navajo Nation President Nygren visited the free summer running and fitness camp hosted by Wings of America on Monday, July 6, at Monument Valley High School, spending the afternoon encouraging young participants to stay active, build healthy habits, and enjoy their summer through fitness and friendship.
The two-day camp welcomed children and teens ages 6 to 18 for a fun-filled experience centered on movement, teamwork, and personal growth. Participants took part in warm-ups, cool-down runs, group running and walking activities, games, and fitness exercises while receiving healthy snacks and lunch throughout the day.
Inspired by the cultural, spiritual, and competitive legacy of Native runners, Wings of America has empowered Native youth and their families since 1988 through free running and fitness programs across Indian Country. Based in Albuquerque, the nonprofit’s camps are led by Native American high school and college student-athletes from across the Southwest who serve as mentors while sharing their passion for running and healthy living.
During his visit, President Nygren spoke with campers about the importance of staying active during the summer months and applauded them for choosing to spend part of their vacation investing in their health and well-being.
“It means a lot to see so many young people here making time to stay active during the summer,” President Nygren said. “The friendships you build, the confidence you gain, and the healthy habits you develop today can stay with you for the rest of your lives. Keep challenging yourselves, encourage one another, and always believe in what you can accomplish.”
The visit also included a lively game of knockout inside the Beets Gym, where President Nygren joined campers on the basketball court. The friendly competition brought plenty of laughter and smiles, creating a memorable moment that reflected the camp’s focus on fun, fitness, and community.
This summer, the Navajo Nation Running and Fitness Camps have welcomed hundreds of young participants in Montezuma Creek, Shiprock, Tohajiilee, Crownpoint, Fort Defiance, Tohatchi, and Monument Valley.
The program continues throughout July with additional camps scheduled at:
July 8–9: Chinle High School – Chinle, Arizona
July 15–16: Ganado High School – Ganado, Arizona
July 20–21: Newcomb High School – Newcomb, New Mexico
Families interested in registering their children for upcoming camps may contact Wings of America at Esther@wingsofamerica.org or (505) 982-6761 for additional information.
President Nygren thanked Wings of America, student-athlete mentors, volunteers, and families for their continued commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and creating positive opportunities for Navajo youth throughout the summer.
