Last week, the finale of the seventh season for The Amazing Race Canada aired.
Local fans, along with the rest of the country, watched as James Makokis and Anthony Johnson crossed the finish line. They outlasted nine other teams throughout the episodes, and were crowned the winners
When I heard the news, I couldn’t help but let out a cheer for the pair.
Robynne Henry The Henry Hype
I had the honour of meeting them during one of the viewing parties they hosted at the Bonnyville and District Centennial Centre, and I was blown away by how amazing they were. They made the time to speak to almost everyone who attended, and had everyone guessing what the outcome was going to be.
I enjoyed the opportunity to watch the show alongside James and Anthony, because they were able to answer questions about what was happening behind the scenes. They won the leg of race that night, and revealed they didn’t get the prizes until the episode aired. As someone who’s always been curious about how reality television works, it was a great experience.
Seeing the community rally behind them was another highlight for me. People were crowded in to watch, and were on the edge of their seats the entire time. None of us in the audience could have known just how far James and Anthony would go, and were just glad to see them come out on top of that particular leg.
Honestly, I think they deserve a medal for being able to keep such a big secret all this time. I know I couldn’t have, and am very impressed with their determination.
Through the viewing parties like the one I attended, along with selling personalized Team Ahkameyimok t-shirts and other ways, the pair raised money for a healing centre in Kehewin Cree Nation. It’s brought a smile to my face every time I’ve seen someone sporting one around town, and I hope to continue to see them. As the first indigenous two-spirited couple to appear on the show, they also broke down barriers for the LGBTQ2+ community.
I honestly view James and Anthony as role models. They had this amazing opportunity to compete on national television, and used their position as a means of giving back in very impactful ways. They stayed humble, and didn’t give up until they came out victorious.
While I’m sure they’ve heard it hundreds of times by now, I wanted to dedicate this week’s edition of the Henry Hype to Team Ahkameyimok. Get all the sleep you can, and enjoy the title of the winners of this season of The Amazing Race Canada.
