Featured events


7-9 September 2012
Brussels Games
Brussels

Brussels Gay Sports will offer a weekend of fun and fairplay in the capital of Europe, with volleyball, swimming, badminton, and tennis, as well as fitness and hiking.

Learn more HERE.
26-28 October 2012
QueergamesBern
Bern, Switzerland

The success of the first edition of the QueergamesBern proved the need for an LGBT multisport event in Switzerland. This year will be even bigger, with badminton, bowling, running, walking, floorball.

Learn more HERE.
17-20 January 2013
Sin City Shootout
Las Vegas
The 7th Sin City Shootout will feature softball, ice hockey, tennis, wrestling, basketball, dodgeball, bodybuilding and basketball.

Learn more HERE.

13-16 June 2013
IGLFA Euro Cup
Dublin
After this year's edition in Budapest at the EuroGames, the IGLFA Euro Cup heads to Dublin for 2013, hosted by the Dublin Devils and the Dublin Phoenix Tigers.

Learn more HERE.

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Memories of the Chosen Few

Read the full post on Keph Senett's Personal SA blog:

Off to one side was the South African women’s team, the Chosen Few. They’d been the subject of many conversations, having invited the attention of players from both divisions for their practice of approaching the field for their games singing and dancing in unison. It was an impressive display, both beautiful and intimidating.

Now, the team was standing in a wide circle socializing with each other and whoever wanted to step into the ring. I did.

Within moments I realized I’d inserted myself into a discussion about the consequences of being lesbian in the townships of South Africa. The women spoke in turn, uninterrupted, and told everyone assembled stories of brutal violence, corrective rape, and murder. In the preceding few years, I was told, several players had been killed for being lesbian.

We were standing close, shoulder to shoulder, protective and insular, when the women from the Chosen Few began to clap and sing, pulling each other into the centre one by one. Concentrating on matching the rhythm of the group, I slapped my palms together and felt honored and ridiculous and lucky and amazed all at once. By choosing to play, these women were effectively “coming out” into extreme hostility and risking terrible violence, even death. I didn’t know what to do with this information – I still don’t – except to put my hands together and share that fleeting moment in the alley.

~

The Chosen Few is run by the Forum for Empowerment of Women (FEW). They won a bronze medal at the Gay Games Tournament in Chicago in 2006, and again in 2008 at the IGLFA Championships in London. The team has been awarded a Gay Games scholarship to handle travel and accommodation expenses so they can compete in the 2010 Gay Games in Cologne, Germany, but they still require further financial assistance to obtain gear and handle other associated expenses.

To help, contact Dikeledi Sibanda at 0113391867 or 0765123874 or e- mail project1@few.org.za

Pride Games registration opens

Pride Games take place this year from 5 to 13 June in Manchester. You can register online HERE.

Many events are on offer, divided into three categories:
  • Compete: These are our purely competitive events. They are open to all abilities.
  • Learn: These are events that teach you about the sport and how to do it, as well as including lots of practice and fun.
  • Fun: These are events just for fun. If you've ever wanted to give something a try then these are for you!

Philadelphia Falcons prepare for IGLFA world championships at Gay Games VIII

From The Temple (click HERE to read the full article):

This local, nonprofit amateur adult league is a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Football Association. Started in 1992, the IGLFA currently heads soccer involvement at the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany, where the Falcons are headed for the sixth year.

Founded in 1980 to recognize the athletic talent and dedication of the LGBTQ community, the Gay Games are modeled after the Olympics. Games are held once every four years and feature numerous sports and events with thousands of athletes in participation.

While the Falcons were largely founded and are currently coordinated by gay athletes, the team comprises members of all ages, genders, ethnicities and sexual orientations. Aside from an array of demographics, the team’s most distinguishing attribute is the family that’s been formed through the Falcons’ love for the game.

“I like soccer, but it is also a community,” Pepe Gimenez, a calculus professor at Temple, said. “You belong to a group of very nice people. We go out and travel together. They are very much my second home.”

Gay Games VIII at Dinah Shore weekend in Palm Springs

Marie and crew are in Palm Springs now, on the links today and tomorrow, and at the Gay Games booth at the Renaissance Hotel from Friday-Sunday.

The FGG wants to extend its special thanks to members of the Gay Games family who have hosted and supported the Gay Games VIII promo teams on their various trips!

http://dinahshoreweekend.com/hotels.html

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

FGG Marketing Officer marks 20 years on Board of LGBA


At the annual conference of FGG member organization Lesbian and Gay Band Association in Indianapolis last week, Doug Litwin stepped down from the organization's board after 20 years of service. The Federation of Gay Games applauds Doug for his dedication to our member organization and to his constant concern for the Gay Games cultural program.

Congratulations to Doug on his 20 years of service to the LGBT sports and culture movement!

Monday, March 29, 2010

Team Chicago travel plan


Thanks to Kyle Chang for his work on travel for Team Chicago. All info HERE.

Team Chicago Members are eligible for travel and accommodations discounts once they have been verified as a paid member in good order. In addition, members can spread out payments for travel and accommodations over the six months so that it's easier on the monthly expenses.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

Gay Games VIII scholarship appeal


Click HERE to view an important message.
And click HERE to donate to the FGG scholarship fund.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

One Step Closer figure skating benefit for AIDS in NYC


More info HERE.

PS: If you have the pleasure of attending this great event, check out Oksana Baiul's outfit, which was created by our very own Laura Moore, FGG VP Diversity and chair of the FGG Fashion Committee!

Recap of Australia promo events


Featuring FGG Ambassadors Michelle Ferris and Ji Wallace, and great images from the Sydney Mardi Gras parade.

Thanks to the Gay Games crew in Australia, and to Philipp Lischke and the folks from Lufthansa Australia in particular!

Gay Games VIII promo in NYC

Thanks to Charlie C. for these photos from the first promo event on the east-west tour at Gym Sports Bar.

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Irish hurler supports Team Ireland

From Wednesday's promo event in Dublin (more on Team Ireland HERE):


HURLING legend Donal Óg Cusack has given his full support to gay athletes who came out yesterday ahead of their participation in the Gay Games this summer.

Top swimming instructor and Gay Games medallist Eilís Burns, said she hopes their decision will be an example to others in a similar situation.

Eilís, a swimming coach at the Source Health and Fitness Centre, Silversprings Hotel, Cork, and her 25 Cork team-mates will be part of the 60-strong Irish team travelling to Cologne in July for the 10-day event.

Continue reading HERE.

Chris Morgan profile in Bay Area Reporter

In the latest issue of the Bay Area Reporter, Roger Brigham interviews FGG Ambassador Chris Morgan on the latest in his powerlifting career.

From the profile:

"Naturally my aim is to continue representing the Federation of Gay Games as one of their global ambassadors. It means so much to me having competed in my first competition in Amsterdam in 1998. The Gay Games gave me the chance to try a new sport in a safe environment and I'll always be grateful for that."

German Foreign Minister official patron of Gay Games VIII

From The Local:Westerwelle to kick off Gay Games in Cologne this summer

German Foreign Minister Guido Westerwelle has agreed to be the official patron of the eighth annual Gay Games in Cologne this summer, the organisation reported on Thursday.

Westerwelle’s participation was a “clear signal for more tolerance and acceptance of homosexual people in our society,” Gay Games Cologne 2010 director Annette Wachter said, adding that organisers hope this will enhance how the athletes are received in their daily lives.

More than 12,000 athletes from around the world are expected at the games, which run from July 31 to August 7 in the city.

The first Gay Games event took place in 1982 in the California city of San Francisco with the aim of fighting discrimination against lesbians, gays and bisexuals.

Its 35 competitions include football, track and field, swimming, body building, bowling and golf.

Help the Chosen Few help themselves

SOUTH AFRICA -- 23 March 2010: In a bid to raise funds for the Gay Games World Tournament in Cologne, Germany, The Chosen Few, a lesbian soccer team, owned by the Forum for Empowerment of Women (FEW) will be hosting a car wash and picnic at Zoolake on Saturday 27 March and are appealing to the community at large for support.

Having received a scholarship* from the Gay Games committee which covers travel expenses and accommodation the team is still in need of a proper gear, assistance with local travelling expenses to and from training and funding for a pre tournament camp.

"Without donations there is no Chosen Few, we need support from the LGBTI community which will further motivate us to perform at our best", said Matshidiso Mofokeng, player of the Chosen Few Team.

Continue reading HERE.

*Generously financed by Dick Uyvari and the late Joe LaPat

Team Philadelphia travel package


For any Philadelphia-area Gay Games participants who aren't aware of it, Team Philadelphia has put together an interesting travel package to Cologne.

Find it HERE.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Details of North American Gay Games tour 2

While the fabulous Marie is heading from east to west, the equally fabulous Stephan will be heading from north to south. Here's where you can find him!

Toronto, ON
27 March

8-11pm
Promo Event
Woody’s
467 Church Street
t. 416.972.0887

28 March
Promo Event
O’Gradys Tap & Grill
518 Church Street
t. 416.323.2822


Washington, DC
30 March

6-8pm
Promo Event
Cobalt
1639 R Street NW
t. 202.232.4416


Atlanta, GA
31 March

8-11pm
Promo Event
Blake’s on the Park
227 10th Street
t. 404.892.5786


Orlando, FL
3 April

All day
Tennis tournament
Sanlando Park
401 West Highland Avenue
Altamonte Springs, FL


3 April

Evening
The Vue
7th Floor Reception Area
150 East Robinson St.
Orlando


4 April

6-8pm
Parliament House
410 N. Orange Blossom Trail
Orlando

Get pumped with Team Oregon!

Monday, March 29, 2010
6:30pm - 8:00pm
Flying Cat Coffee
3041 SE Division
Portland, OR

This meeting is for all members of Team Oregon 2010 and anyone who is interested in learning more about the effort.

Team Oregon 2010's mission is to send as many fabulous athletes as possible to the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany. The Games take place during the first week of August, 2010. Team Oregon 2010 plans to hold fundraisers and garner sponsors to help all traveling participants pay their way to the Games.

At each monthly "Get Pumped" meeting, two main things happen:

1. People interested in joining or supporting Team Oregon 2010 can learn more about us and join up!

2. Members can learn about planned activities in which they can participate. Members earn points toward their travel "scholarship" by participating in activities. Of course, this is also a great time to share new ideas.

So, be sure to check us out!

Members earn points just for attending the meeting!

The meeting starts at 6:30 pm and we work VERY hard to make sure it is over by 8:00 pm.

Flying Cat is owned and operated by a member of Team Oregon 2010. Normally closed on Monday nights, the owner graciously opens her shop just for us once a month. Please bring some money to buy a cup of coffee, tea, and/or something to eat.

Thanks!

Visit our website: http://www.teamoregon2010.org
Join Team Oregon 2010: http://www.teamoregon2010.org/membership

If you have questions about this meeting please email rob@enterthenet.com

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Team Ireland events in Dublin (24/03) and Cork (25/03)

To help everyone with their planning, Out in Ireland is organizing information evenings this week in Dublin and Cork:

DUBLIN: This Wednesday 24th March, 8:00pm at Panti Bar, Capel St.
A short video presentation and an opportunity to meet other athletes such as Nick Flanagan heading to the Gay Games.

CORK: This Thursday, 25th March, 6.30pm at the Council Chamber in City Hall, hosted by Cllr. Dara Murphy, Mayor of Cork

Details of North American Gay Games Tour 1

Current plans for the fabulous Marie from Games Cologne!

New York
Friday 26 March

After work sign-up event
GYM Sports Bar
Time: 5pm – late
167 8th Ave [Between 18th & 19th St]
New York, NY 10011
t. 212.337.2439

New York
Saturday 27 March

Volley tournament
Queens College
65-30 Kissena Blvd.
Flushing, NY 11367

and

Lesbian registration party
Gingers (Lesbian bar)
Time: 8pm – late
From: 8pm to 9pm you get a pint of gingers brew for $3 and a liquor drink special for $3.50
363 5th Ave (Between 5th & 6th Street in Brooklyn)
t 718 7880924 and 917 4469778

Denver
Monday 29 March

All evening drop-in/sign-up
Tentatively at Hamburger Mary's
Time: 5pm – 10pm
Restaurant and Bar
700 E 17th St. Denver

Palm Springs
TBD

Los Angeles
Monday 5 April

Registration party
GYM Sports Bar
Time: 6pm – 8pm
8737 Santa Monica Blvd
West Hollywood, CA 90069
t. (310) 659-2004

San Diego
Tuesday 6 April

Registration party
Bourbon Street bar
Time: 8pm- 10pm

Las Vegas
Thursday 8 April
Registration party
FreeZone
Time: 7pm - 9pm
610 East Naples
Las Vegas, Nevada
702 794.2300
http://www.freezonelv.com/

Phoenix
Friday 9 April

Ritz-Carlton hotel
Booth at the registration party for Sagurao Cup Softball Tournament
2401 East Camelback Road
Phoenix, AZ 85016

Monday, March 22, 2010

Kile Ozier to produce Amnesty International USA's 50th anniversary

Kile Ozier, producer of ceremonies for Gay Games IV New York and Gay Games VII Chicago has been chosen to produce the 50th anniversary events for Amnesty International USA. Congratulations to Kile: we're sure you'll do a great job for a great cause.

Climax to Cologne


The Colorado Climax hockey teams have joined in a common purpose, to represent Colorado and participate in the 2010 Gay Games in Cologne, Germany. Our collection of gay, lesbian and gay friendly hockey players look to continue its success in international competition, as well as fulfilling the Gay Games' principles of Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best.

Find out how to support Colorado Climax HERE.

Friday, March 19, 2010

Auf Deutsch / En français / FGG Board of Directors affirms support for a single event in 2018

Co-presidents Kurt Dahl, & Emy Ritt (FGG), Julia Applegate & Wessel van Kampen (GLISA)*

(German version HERE and French version HERE)

San Francisco – (17 March 2010) The Federation of Gay Games board would like to issue these statements with joy and unanimous support from the board of directors.

Following a meeting of the Co-Presidents of the Federation of Gay Games and GLISA on 5 March 2010, in Manchester, UK, to discuss the future of worldwide LGBT sport and culture, the FGG Board affirms that one quadrennial event in 2018 is our goal.

Sports, Culture, and Human Rights will be components of the 2018 event, as they have been in the past.

We see a number of steps needed to move in this direction. The FGG's priority is a successful Gay Games VIII, to which GLISA has been invited to participate. After Cologne, more discussions and collaboration are needed between the two organizations and the members and communities which we all represent. A joint working group will be set up between the two organizations to continue the discussions required to carry out our intended goal of one quadrennial event in 2018.

We recognize that this is an important step to ensure that the legacy of global LGBT sports and culture continues to flourish.


With regard to the above statement, FGG co-president Kurt Dahl (Chicago) expressed his gratitude to the Board of Directors of the FGG, who recognized the important progress accomplished in Manchester as part of the ongoing process of discussions held between the two organizations with input from our members and the wider community: “We have heard the calls for a single quadrennial event and sought to achieve this goal to better serve our mission of promoting equality. We look forward to the first step in this new chapter, with the presence of GLISA at Gay Games VIII, which has received the enthusiastic support from our host organization, Games Cologne.”

Co-presidents Emy Ritt & Kurt Dahl (FGG), Julia Applegate & Wessel van Kampen (GLISA)*


Der Vorstand der Gay Games verspricht ein einziges LGBT-Event für das jahr 2018


Die FGG bestätigt ihr Objektiv eines gemeinsamen, alle 4 Jahre stattfindenden Events.

San Francisco – (17. März 2010) Der Vorstand der internationalen Federation of Gay Games –unter Einstimmigkeit all ihrer Mitglieder- freut sich bekanntzugeben:

Im Anschluss an eine Versammlung der Co-Präsidenten von FGG und GLISA am 5. März 2010 in Manchester/UK, bei der über die weltweite Zukunft von LGBT-Sport & Kultur diskutiert wurde, bestätigt der Vorstand, dass ab 2018 die Organisation eines einzigen, alle 4 Jahre stattfindenden Events angestrebt wird.

Sport, Kultur und Menschenrechtsfragen werden auch 2018 hauptsächliche Komponenten der Veranstaltungen sein, wie das schon in der Vergangenheit der Fall war.

Zur Erreichung unseres Zieles sind eine gewisse Anzahl von Etappen notwendig.

Augenblickliche Priorität der FGG ist das Gelingen der Gay Games in Köln; die GLISA wurde zur Teilnahme eingeladen.

Anschliessend an Köln sollen zwischen den beiden Organisationen, sowie den Mitgliedern und Gemeinschaften, die wir jeweils vertreten, weitere Gespräche und eine aktive Zusammenarbeit stattfinden.

Eine gemeinsame Arbeitsgruppe, bestehend aus Mitgliedern beider Organisationen, macht sich zum Ziel, die für die Realisierung unseres für 2018 geplanten Objektivs einer einzigen, gemeinsamen, je vierjährigen Veranstaltung unerlässlichen Diskussionen zu führen.

Zweifellos ist dies ein bedeutender Schritt für die Erhaltung, die Kontinuität und den Erfolg der LGBT-Kultur und des LGBT-Sports weltweit.


Bezügl. des obigen Beschlusses drückte FGG Co-Präsident Kurt Dahl (Chicago) dem Vorstand der FGG seine Dankbarkeit aus. Er hob den entscheidenden Fortschritt in Manchester heraus als Teil eines kontinuierlichen Gesprächsprozesses zwischen den beiden Organisationen, unter Einbeziehung von Beiträgen ihrer Mitglieder und der Community: “Wir haben den Wunsch nach einem einzigen, alle vier Jahre stattfindenden Event vernommen und uns die Frage gestellt, wie wir unserer Mission für mehr Gleichheit besser gerecht werden können. Wir freuen uns auf den ersten Schritt, auf dieses neue Kapitel, beginnend mit der Teilnahme der GLISA an den Gay Games VIII, welche von unserem Gastgeber, den Games Cologne, enthusiastisch begrüsst wurde.

FGG co-presidents Kurt Dahl & Emy Ritt*

Le Conseil d’administration de la Fédération internationale des Gay Games affirme son soutien pour une manifestation unique


La FGG s’engage sur l’objectif d’une seule manifestation sportive et culturelle quadriennale en 2018.


San Francisco – (17 mars 2010) Le Conseil d’administration de la Fédération internationale des Gay Games (FGG) a l’immense plaisir de faire la déclaration suivante, qui a reçu le soutien unanime de ses administrateurs.

A la suite de la rencontre du 5 mars 2010 à Manchester (Royaume-Uni) des co-présidents de la Fédération internationale des Gay Games et la GLISA, destinée à discuter de l’avenir du sport et de la culture LGBT dans le mode, le Conseil d’administration de la FGG affirme qu’il vise la tenue d’une seule manifestation quadriennale à partir de 2018.

Le sport, la culture, et les droits de l’homme seront des composants de cette manifestation de 2018, comme ils l’ont été par le passé.

Nous voyons un certain nombre d’étapes critiques pour parvenir à ce but.

La priorité actuelle de la FGG est la réussite des Gay Games VIII, auxquels la GLISA a été invitée de participer.

A la suite de ces jeux, de plus amples discussions et collaborations seront nécessaires entre les deux organisations et les membres des communautés que nous représentons.

Un groupe de travail conjoint sera mis en place par les deux organisations pour entreprendre les discussions requises pour réaliser notre objectif commun d’une manifestation unique en 2018.

Nous reconnaissons que ceci représente un pas important pour assurer la poursuite et la continuité de l’héritage du mouvement sportif et culturel LGBT mondial.


A propos de la déclaration ci dessus, Kurt Dahl (Chicago) co-président de la FGG, a exprimé sa gratitude envers le Conseil d'administration de la FGG, qui a reconnu le progrès important réalisé à Manchester comme la suite logique du processus de discussions entamé entre les deux organisations, avec les contributions de nos organisations membres et la communauté en général. "Nous avons entendu les appels pour une manifestation quadriennale unique, avons tenté de réaliser cet objectif afin de mieux respecter notre mission de promouvoir l'égalité. Nous anticipons avec plaisir le premier pas dans ce nouveau chapitre, avec la présence de GLISA aux Gay Games VIII, ce qui a reçu un soutien enthousiaste de notre comité d'organisation Games Cologne.

*Photos Manchester Pride Sports

Best wishes to Bill McManus and David Nelson!

For unfortunate reasons, the Federation of Gay Games doesn't have the opportunity of celebrating the marriage of members of our "family" as often as it would like. So we're delighted that the legalization of same-sex marriage in Washington, DC gives us an opportunity to congratulate Team Rehoboth Beach delegate Bill McManus on his marriage yesterday to his long-time partner, David Nelson.

Best wishes and much happiness!

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Games Cologne at Hamburg Gayvention

Meet Gay Games VIII Cologne at the Gayvention in Hamburg on March 27 & 28, 2010.
http://www.gayvention.de/

FGG co-president and FSGL delegate guest speakers at showing of Training Rules

During the Cineffable festival of lesbian and feminist films in Paris, a special session on lesbophobia in sport will be held at 17.00 on April 17. A short subject, Colpi di testa, on the first women's football team in Italy, and Training Rules, will be screened before a discussion with a panel including Maria Salvietti, FSGL delegate to the FGG, and Emy Ritt, female co-president of the FGG.

Visit the website of Cineffable for details.

Team Philadelphia supports Pride Games

Penn Awareness Week at the University of Pennsylvania takes place from Monday, March 22nd to Sunday March 28th

Pride Games is a giant field day that PATH (Penn Athletes and Allies Tackling Homophobia) puts on to bring the LGBT and athletic communities together. It's happening at 3pm Sunday March 28th at Hill Field (33rd and Chestnut).

Team Philly needs 10 volunteers to compete in a variety of games. Registration is $10 per participant with a t-shirt. Emale kdouglass@gaygames.org with your tshirt size -- stat!

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Can we get Flag Football added to the program of Gay Games VIII?

The Boston gay flag football team behind a video that managed to get the attention of Ellen Degeneres earlier this year put their effort into creating a video for a Ke$ha YouTube video contest. Except, after finishing the video, they realized they had used the wrong song. Still, it's as party-oriented as you'd expect a Ke$ha video to be.
Via Towleroad and Yagg

Gay Games VIII second North American tour: coming soon to a town near you

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

French minister of health and sport and Mayor of Paris announced as patrons of TIP2010

Organizers of the 2010 Paris International Tournament hosted by the FSGL, and sponsored by the FGG and Games Cologne, have announced that Roselyne Bachelot-Narquin, Minister of Health and Sport, and Bertrand Delanoë, Mayor of Paris (seen together here in a Gala photo from the French Open), will again be patrons of the event.

TIP organizers are pleased with this show of support for an event which has proven to be a regular success for participants from the Paris area, from France, and beyond. This year's edition features some changes, including new venues for the dance party, which will take place at famous music venue L'Elysée Montmartre, and for the registration night, which will be hosted at the town hall of the IVth Arrondissement, where numerous sports demonstrations will take place all evening long. Last year's experiment by FC Paris Arc en ciel, which invited some thirty teams in its (mainstream) league to play in the TIP tournament, will be repeated.

Info and registration HERE.

French ministry of sport grants FSGL/Equipe France 15,000 euros for Gay Games VIII

Bruno Aussenac, president of the FGG member organization FSGL (Fédération française sportive gaie et lesbienne/French national gay and lesbian sports federation) announced yesterday that the French ministry of sport would award the FSGL 15,000 euros for track suits to be worn by members of Equipe France at Gay Games VIII.

The suits will be part of the official Equipe France uniform, which will include a custom tshirt for Gay Games VIII*. The track suits, bearing the word FRANCE (used for French national teams), the logo of the ministry, and the motto of the FSGL, will be used for events beyond Gay Games VIII, whether for tournaments or future multisport events (Gay Games, EuroGames, etc.).

The letter of confirmation, signed by Secretary of State for Sports Rama Yade (left), speaks of the support for the FSGL's work to fight discrimination in sport, as represented in the FSGL's new motto : "Contre les discriminations, faisons du sport ensemble" (Against all forms of discrimination, let's play sport together).

Equipe France, chaired by FSGL delegate to the FGG Christelle Foucault, continues its work toward its goal of more than 500 French athletes at Gay Games VIII. An aggressive scholarship program has raised thousands of euros for scholarships, and a grant from the city of Paris have been requested to expand the scholarship program to allow all athletes in France to participate, regardless of their financial resources. Among the projects currently being developed is a special Thalys train from Paris to Cologne, transporting more than 300 participants together to Gay Games VIII.

*A reminder that your city team or sports and culture group coming to Gay Games VIII can request the use of the FGG and Gay Games VIII logos on your team uniform. Write to Doug Litwin at dlitwin@gaygames.org for more info on this possibility.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Suzanne Westenhoefer on the Gay Games

Suzanne Westenhoefer is a stand-up comedian. In this bit she talks about Gay Games VII, where she performed at opening ceremony and where her partner (sort of) competed in the Triathlon...

March 24: Team Philadelphia Gay Games VIII/Brian Sims event

Team Philadelphia and local gay and lesbian sports teams invite you to join them as hosts of Our Night Out being held at Ladder 15 (1528 Sansom Street, Philadelphia) on Wednesday, 24 March 2010 from 6 to 9 pm. Learn about LGBT sports opportunities as well as Team Philadelphia’s participation in the 2010 Gay Games in Cologne.

Special guest is Brian Sims (www.brianksims.com), a Philadelphia area attorney and former openly gay Bloomsburg University football quarterback who is a new Ambassador for the international Federation of Gay Games.

Athletes from area LGBT sports leagues are encouraged to wear team uniforms and mix with the crowd to help with recruitment and orientation. Team Philadelphia representatives will be on hand to talk about the 2010 Gay Games in Cologne, Germany, 31 July to 7 August 2010 including registration, travel, lodging and more.

IMF report on hosting major international sporting events

Inside the Games analyzes the report from the Interational Monetary Fund's Andrew Zimbalist. Some key extracts:

"The indirect economic benefits generated by mega sporting events are potentially more important than the direct benefits, but are more difficult to quantify.

"One possible indirect benefit is the advertising effect of such events.

[...]

"In this sense, the intense media coverage before and during the Olympic Games or other big events is a form of advertising, possibly attracting tourists who would not have otherwise considered the city or region, and who may generate significant, broad, and long-lasting economic benefits."

[...]

He said: "Hosting an event like the Olympic Games or the World Cup can generate significant intangible benefits for the host city or region, whose residents are likely to derive appreciable pride and sense of community from hosting the event.

"Their homes are the focus of the world’s attention for a brief but intense period.

"The planning and work required to host the event take significant time and effort - much by volunteers - and engender a considerable local and national sense of accomplishment.

"These factors are both important and valuable, even though researchers find it difficult to place a dollar value on them."

---

Read the article HERE. We note the report deals with events such as the Olympics or the football World Cup, and the most significant

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Johnny Weir ban demonstrates continuing need for events that fight homophobia

Extract from the Clip 'n' Chips blog:

The recent scandals and controversies surrounding Olympic athlete Johnny Weir have brought to the surface once again the issue of homosexuality in sports. While Weir himself has been reluctant to address his sexuality, probably for good reason, the commentary about him as well as the pure fascination with his persona and demeanor has put a spotlight on the homophobia and stereotyping that still exists, though largely dormant and underreported, within athletics and sports casting and reporting today.

In 1982 Tom Waddell formed the Gay Olympics in San Francisco in an effort to promote inclusion and sportsmanship within both gay and straight communities. Though Waddell did eventually have to drop the word “Olympics” from his organization, because the word “Olympics” is essentially trademarked, the event survives to this day, 28 years later, as the Gay Games. Along with the Outgames, another more recently created sporting event of the same nature, the Gay Games have brought together thousands of people from all across the United States and the world to celebrate and take part in sporting events under the banner of respect and inclusion.

From its inception many people from both the gay and straight communities have questioned the necessity for such an organization(s); and some have criticized its founding as an attempt to inject the topic of sexuality into sporting events, which many claim should be void of any kind of cultural points of contention. However, the stories generated about all things Johnny Weir have pointed out in fact that the missions of both events are more important now more than ever.

Read the full article HERE.

A Gay Games flavor at NBA basketball match

Thursday marked the first time the Golden State Warriors basketball team hosted an LGBT night - adding the gay community to its long roster of diversity-themed games that include everything from Bollywood dancing on Indian culture night to horn-blowing rabbis on Jewish heritage night.

"Generally in sports the gay issue is a touchy one, so this is extremely validating for us," said Stuart Leung, president of the San Francisco Gay Basketball Association, a league of eight teams that will use a portion of ticket sales to send players from their Rockdogs team to the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany, in July.

[...]

At halftime, the world's only gay-identified cheerleading team, Cheer SF, gave a high-octane performance, tossing male and female fliers into the air.

[...]

Earlier in the day, members of the San Francisco Gay Basketball Association were invited to play a pickup game on the Warriors' court.

"I just remember playing sports as a kid and never feeling like I could tell people I was gay, so this is a special thing for the NBA to acknowledge players like me," said Rockdogs point guard Mikey Survillion, 25.


Read the full article HERE.

Seattle basketball fundraiser June 19

Jet City Hoops Fundraiser to support two local basketball teams as they head to Cologne, Germany to represent Seattle in the Gay Games.

This is going to be an extra special event featuring The Endeavors along with other special guests. More to come as the details are worked out :)

Info available on Facebook HERE.

Intersexuality petition to IOC

Now online is a petition demanding that:

1. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) abandon its demands that female athletes with intersex variations have their variations diagnosed and treated.

2. The IOC allow the above mentioned athletes, known as intersex women, to compete as females without having to undergo diagnosis or “treatment.”

3. The IOC, the press, and medical practitioners refer to females with intersex variations as “intersex women,” and not “women with disorders of sex development.”

For the FGG, the issue of competitive divisions for trans and intersex athletes is complex, but it seems clear that the current proposal adopts an attitude that is not respectful of the status of intersex athletes. We invite our readers to consult the petition HERE.

Message to Adam Carolla: even you are welcome at the Gay Games

In a recent podcast, humorist Adam Carolla suggests a way to "screen out straights" from the Gay Games. While we're glad that "Gay Games" is top of mind for Mr. Carolla, we do want to remind him that however much he might enjoy participating in the screening process he suggests, there isn't one. The Gay Games are for everyone.

The next edition of the largest sporting event open to all will be held this summer from 31 July to 7 August in Cologne, Germany. Men and women, gay and straight, beginners and Olympic champions: all are welcome to compete in a spirit of Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best (tm). The FGG would like to extend a personal invitation to Mr. Carolla to come to Cologne.

LGBA annual conference in Indianapolis

From March 24 to 28, FGG member organization Lesbian and Gay Band Association will be holding its annual conference in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Details on the conference HERE.

Monday, March 8, 2010

Chris Morgan takes new title at British single-lift event

The Federation of Gay Games extends its congratulations to Chris Morgan, the current Gay Games Powerlifting champion, who has won the ‘Best Lifter’ award at the British Deadlift Championships.

He was lifting in the British ‘Drug Free’ single lift championships, held in Horncastle in England where he made lifts of 210 kilos, 240 kilos, and 260 kilos to clinch the British Open title in the 82.5 kilo class. Chris also won the overall ‘best lifter’ in proportion to body weight.

Speaking about the competition, Chris said, ‘I’m really pleased to have set a new lifetime best on the way to winning the overall best lifter title at this year’s British Championship. This competition forms part of my preparations for the forthcoming defence of my world title in Russia at the end of next month. I’m realistic that the trip to Moscow will be the toughest test of my whole career to date, however this result gives me encouragement and incentive to improve again over the coming weeks’.

Chris continued, ‘This year promises an exciting competition schedule with the World Championships in Moscow in April, the Gay Games in Cologne in August and the European Championships in Malta in October all set to inspire me to new heights as I strive to improve my own personal best. It’s a huge honour to once again be representing England in International competition and also to continue my role with The Federation of Gay Games as one of their Global Ambassadors’

Sunday, March 7, 2010

FGG co-presidents meet Gay Games Ambassador at EGLSF civic reception

At the civic reception held during the European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation annual general assembly in Manchester, Federation of Gay Games co-presidents Emy Ritt (Paris) and Kurt Dahl (Chicago), had the pleasure of meeting Gay Games Ambassador Jon Amaechi, a Manchester native, who along with the Lord Mayor and Paul Fairweather, the lead councillor for gay men's issues, spoke to the group of EGLSF delegates and guests. In the photo, Mr. Fairweather's counterpart for lesbian women's issues, Ritt, Amaechi, Dahl, and Fairweather.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

EGLSF annual meeting opens in Manchester

The Annual General Assembly of the European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation (EGLSF) opens tomorrow in Manchester. Many FGG member organizations are also members of the EGLSF, and FGG representatives are looking forward to seeing familiar faces at the AGA hosted by FGG member organization PrideSports.

At last year's 20th Anniversary AGA in The Hague, the FGG board of directors was present en masse to honor this signal event. This year, the FGG will be represented by copresident Kurt Dahl and VP for Membership Paul Oostenbrug, both from Chicago. Co-president Emy Ritt and Sports Officer Marc Naimark will also be present as delegates from their clubs (VCL and Le Coq Musclé, respectively).

The FGG wishes the EGLSF and its members a most successful AGA, and thanks PrideSports, and Lou Englefield and Trevor Burchick in particular, for their warm welcome.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

FGG website temporarily down

If you've been trying to visit the FGG website via gaygames.com, you may have had some problems. Our transition to our new website have led to some issues which we hope will be quickly resolved. Thanks for your patience!

UPDATE: Problem sorted!

Sites take up the call for Gay Games VIII volunteers

Among the sites spreading the call for volunteers for Gay Games VIII is the new AOL LGBT blog QueerSighted:

Want to meet Olympic gold medalist diver Matthew Mitcham? Of course you do. Who wouldn't? (Maybe not Bob Costas, who ID'd every single boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, brother, sister, and friend of every major athlete at the 2008 Summer Olympics but never thought to mention the gold winner's boyfriend, who was cheering him on at every stage.)

Well, if you're headed to the Gay Games in Cologne, Germany, July 31 through August 7, keep an eye out for Matthew. He'll be at the games to promote them and cheer on the athletes, even though he's not competing himself.

Continue reading HERE.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

NBC news in San Francisco features athletes preparing for Cologne

News from California on NBC TV. NBC reported a great feature piece on the athletes, including Cheer SF preparing to go to Cologne, Germany for the 2010 Gay Games. This eighth edition of the Gay Games will take place 31 July to 7 August 2010.

Be Part of It!


More on singer Kaia Wilson's plans to compete in Cologne


We've already posted some videos about Kaia Wilson's training for Table Tennis at Gay Games VIII HERE. Now visit Kaia Wilson's website HERE to follow her journey to Cologne to compete in Table Tennis.

Team DC event to support college scholarship fund

Monday, March 1, 2010

"Chosen Few" featured in leading French LBGT monthly

The story in TETUE (the women's versio of TETU) begins: "«100% black et 100% lesbiennes», voilà le slogan de l'équipe féminine de foot de Johannesbourg qui réunit des lesbiennes pour jouer au foot et défendre la cause lgbt dans la solidarité et l'entraide. Elles tentent d'oublier grâce au foot, les violences dont elles sont souvent victimes, et la précarité. Notre envoyée spéciale TÊTUE les a rencontrées." (100% black, 100% lesbian, that's the slogan of the women's football team from Johannesburg that brings together lesbians to play football and to defend the LGBT cause with solidarity and mutual support. They hope to forget, thanks to football, the violence of which they're victims, and their economic precarity. Our reporter met them...)

Read more HERE.