Is this the right place to post on this topic? If not, please let me know.

I just thought it was interesting that news is already being made on Copenhagen, 2009. I REALLY hope to make it there. I know it's an older article, but I just stumbled across it today.

Happy reading!


_____________________________

Copenhagen 2009 Preparations Right on Track
11.19.05

(Vancouver, CA) - Plans for the 2nd World Outgames in Copenhagen to be held in 2009 continue to remain right on track. From the outset, Copenhagen has enjoyed strong local support, with the City Council granting the 2nd World Outgames significant financial funding on top of giving the Outgames the use of all sport facilities for free. The formation of a working committee involving local tourism, political and LGBT leaders is a further testament to the quality of this future host city.

"A strong working committee has been established with members of Pan Idraet, the local LGBT sport team, as well as representatives from tourism and the city of Copenhagen," reports Tommy Kristoffersen, President of Pan Idraet. "Our primary task of finalizing the detailed sport, culture, and conference plans by year end is well underway. We are clearly on track for a negotiated partnership agreement with GLISA for early 2006, by which time a Board of Directors and first hired staff person will also be in place."

The European Gay and Lesbian Sport Federation (EGLSF) have also shown their support for hosting the 2nd World Outgames taking place in Copenhagen. "Hosting Outgames in Europe means a major contribution to the further development of the LGBT sport movement on this continent," said Beppo Brem, Co-President of EGLSF. "Pan Idraet can rely on all means of support the EGLSF is able to provide."

"We are extremely pleased with the progress shown by Copenhagen as they finalize their plans for partnering with GLISA to deliver the 2nd World Outgames in 2009," announced Catherine Meade, Co-President of GLISA. "Historically major international LGBT Games have been plagued with deficits, resulting in a lack of transfer of knowledge from one host city to another. Following the strength of the business model from the 1st World Outgames in Montréal, GLISA is thrilled to be creating a new legacy for the international LGBT sport community by transferring that model to Copenhagen."

Partnerships between local LGBT sport leaders, tourism and government officials have proven to be a winning business formula for the 1st World Outgames to be held in Montréal from July 26 to August 5, 2006. Beyond a financial legacy, mutual avenues of respect have been built between LGBT and mainstream organizations, leaving the local LGBT community stronger than before hosting the Outgames.

As the international body that represents the Outgames, GLISA is taking steps nine months out from the Opening Ceremony of Montréal, already with over 9,500 registrations, to ensure that this important legacy continues. "We are working closely with the team in Copenhagen to begin the transfer of knowledge in the upcoming months," said Thomas K. Dolan, Co-President of GLISA. "An extensive plan and working committee is already in place to ensure the maximum benefit is given to Copenhagen before, during and after the Outgames in Montréal. GLISA has a genuine commitment to legacy, and with the strength of our partnerships, it is clear that the success of Montréal will be built upon by Copenhagen in their preparations to deliver the 2nd World Outgames in 2009."

For more information, visit www.glisa.org.