A look back at Gay Games VIII: "Never have I felt such a strong sense of community"

From the travel blog "Look at Me Ploise":


What a week it has been! Not only is Cologne a beautiful, vibrant city that accepts all people, it hosted one of the most spectacular events I have ever been to. My sole purpose of attending the games was to have a raging week of socialising and supporting my mates but also to give my good old buddy Kirstyn Feeney a kick start to her 10 week Europe adventure. I couldn't have kicked her any harder.

We spent the first day sight seeing- walking about the city and getting our bearings. The cathedral was the first stop, easy considering it was right next door to our hotel. We climbed the endless staircase to the top to overlook the city; walked along the Rhine River and soaked up the sun.

After a lazy day we decided to get involved in the Games and start watching some events. Most of our mates competed in track events (400m, 800, 5000m, 5km and half marathon) so as a result I can still hear the gun shot ringing in my ear. Suran brought home 3 gold medals, representing the UK and New Zealand proudly. Julia won a silver in the 5km for the UK and the Aussies (Jim and Jen) brought a gold and a silver home for the steeple chase and the 30km cycling road race. Well done team!

The whole week was about participation and never have I felt such a strong sense of community. Everybody was extremely encouraging and supporting, no matter who you were and where you came from. Some people put themselves at risk just to leave their home country in order to get to the Gay Games. It's sad and almost incomprehensible that some nations are still so behind on human rights and equality for all humans. But that didn't put a downer on the week.

Aside from the sports, everyone was there to have a good time, which is where I brought home the gold for team Australia. The funny stories are priceless and have had us in stitches all week but I am going to keep them off here as they are better shared over a beverage.

2014- Gay Games Cleveland here we come!

Thanks to all my mates who made the week one never to forget. I know Kirstyn met some fantastic people and is looking forward to some recovery time back in London. Love ya flops!