2010 Arctic Winter Games Theme Song

In an effort to capture the international flavor of the Arctic Winter Games, a Theme Song Competition was held, inviting entries from anyone who had spent five or more years living North of the 55^th parallel. After careful consideration of the many entries received, the selection committee decided on Grande Prairie’s own Kerry Hesse as the winning songwriter.

 “As a songwriter, this was an opportunity for me to be a part of something that was so much bigger than myself,” said Hesse “I wrote the words to inspire and encourage people to give it their all and be the best that they can be.”

Hesse is from a musically talented family with deep Grande Prairie roots. In keeping with the youth focus of the Arctic Winter Games, Hesse’s children lent their voices to her original contest submission, and have since appeared with her to perform the song at Games events.

Director of Culture for the Games, Jackie Clayton said the selection committee was very impressed with Hesse’s entry.

“Rise Up really exemplified the message we were hoping to get across with our Theme Song.” Clayton said. “We know that it will do a great job of inspiring the over 2,000 participants coming to Grande Prairie for the Games, as well as our local community, to Rise Up!”

2010 Arctic Winter Games Theme Song Lyrics: 

CHORUS

RISE UP RISE UP AND BE