Cousin Watch: The Régniers Are Still Making Me Proud! AMAZING RACE CANADA UPDATE

I'll admit it. I spent this week's episode of The Amazing Race Canada cheering just a little louder than usual.

Why?

Because I'm still claiming Sacha and Sébastien Régnier as my honorary cousins.

Yes, yes, I know. We haven't compared family trees. But as a fellow Red River Métis with the maiden name Régnier, I'm perfectly comfortable adopting them for the season. 😄

Of course, I'm also cheering for Chayla and Chyana. It's been wonderful to see two Indigenous teams representing our communities with determination, humour, and heart. If either team makes it all the way to the finish line, I'll be celebrating.

This week's episode was especially fun for me because the race came to Kelowna and Big White Ski Resort.

I actually lived in Kelowna for several years and, as many of you know, I'll be moving back there this fall. Watching the teams race through the city brought back so many wonderful memories. I've been to every location featured in this leg of the race, so instead of simply watching, I found myself reminiscing about old adventures while looking forward to making new memories there in the months ahead.

As for my honorary cousins...

Once again, Sacha and Sébastien proved they're a team to watch. They handled the physical challenges with confidence, stayed calm under pressure, and worked together incredibly well. Even when the mental challenges slowed down several teams, they never seemed rattled. Their communication and teamwork continue to impress me, and they're looking more and more like serious contenders for the million-dollar prize.

The sisters, Chayla and Chyana, had a more challenging leg, but I love the way they race. They never seem to give up, even when things don't go according to plan. After using their Express Pass in the first episode, they had to rely entirely on grit and determination this week. And they showed plenty of both. Sometimes perseverance is just as inspiring as finishing first.

One thing I've really appreciated this season is seeing Indigenous competitors represented for who they are, not as stereotypes, but as talented, capable people competing alongside everyone else. It's refreshing, and I hope it encourages more Indigenous youth to see themselves in opportunities like this.

So yes, I'll continue cheering for my "cousins," while secretly hoping the sisters are right there beside them.

And if it somehow comes down to a Régnier versus Chayla and Chyana showdown in the finale...

Well...

I may have to pretend I'm Switzerland.

Until next week, go cousins! ❤️