Sara Lewinstein: Tom Waddell Award finalist

The Federation of Gay Game's highest honour will be presented during Gay Games VIII in Cologne, Germany during the opening ceremonies.

The Federation of Gay Games today announced the list of finalists for the 2010 Tom Waddell Award. The Award, which will be presented during Gay Games VIII in Cologne, Germany, symbolised by the Dr. Tom Waddell Trophy, recognises one man and one woman who have made outstanding contributions to the Gay Games and worldwide LGBT sport and culture. The trophy, a gift of Vancouver's lesbian, gay, bi and transsexual community on the occasion of Gay Games III in 1990, is presented every four years at each Gay Games in honour of their founder, Dr. Tom Waddell. (More about the award HERE).

Sara Waddell Lewinstein of Oakland, CA has been nominated for work that began well before Gay Games I in 1982, where she served as board member and sports director. She was a leader in integrating gay men and lesbian women in San Francisco, both in business establishments and in sport, notably in bowling and softball. Sara's leadership continued during Gay Games II and the creation of the Gay Games as an event destined to be hosted around the world. In her own right and as the widow of Tom Waddell, Sara has continued to inspire and encourage each generation of leaders and athletes. In particular, Sara's concern for the place of women in LGBT sport continues to inform the FGG's policies and goals. (We note that to avoid any conflict of interest, the Waddell family will not be involved in the selection of the female winner of the 2010 Tom Waddell Award.)