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World Eskimo Indian Olympics honors long-time ambassador, athlete Robert Aiken

July 21, 2016

“Big Bob” Robert Aiken honored at World Eskimo Indian Olympics

By Robyne, KUAC – Fairbanks

The World Eskimo Indian Olympics started yesterday [Wednesday]. For 56 years, Fairbanks has hosted the event that draws Native athletes and dancers from across the circumpolar north. This is the first year without beloved champion Robert Aiken. At 6’4” and a muscular 300 pounds plus, Aiken was known as “Big Bob.” He was an athlete, mentor, coach and ambassador for the games, which this year are dedicated to his memory. Originally from Barrow, Aiken set records in the Eskimo and Indian stick pull and arm pull contests. He died last November at age 62.