The preliminary list of sports being offered at the Outgames in Copenhagen in 2009 has been released. Here is the list.
Aerobics
Athletics
- cross-country
- marathon
- track and field
Aquatics
- diving
- swimming
- synchronized swimming
- water polo
Badminton
Basketball
Beach Volley
Billiard
Bowling
Bridge
Canoe and Kayak
Cycling
Dance
- ball room
- line dancing
Fencing
Floor all
Football (soccer)
Field hockey
Golf
Gymnastics
Handball
Karate
Kayak polo
Open water swimming
Petanque
Roller Hockey
Rowing
Rugby
Shooting
Taek Wondo
Squash
Table Tennis
Tennis
Triathlon
Volleyball
Full Version: Outgames 2009 - Copenhagen
Let me guess - there are 18,000 people registered already, $20 million in sponsorship dollars, and the entire continent has already booked their travel and hotel rooms in Copenhagen. This whole thing is SO tiring.
Yes it is SO tiring to have gay and lesbian people from around the world get excited about planning to attend a fun cultural and sporting event in Copenhagen in 2009 - an event that based on conversations I had with some Danes last month that those damn Danes seem to be excited about. - The nerve!
Kevin - I'll also be sure to let the women I work with know that you find all their extensive efforts over the past few weeks in helping organize a huge fundraising women's dance tomorrow night as part of Toronto's Pride celebration - with some of the funds raised going to local women who are already planning their trips to Copenhagen - I'll let them know that their efforts are SO tiring to you.
Kevin - I'll also be sure to let the women I work with know that you find all their extensive efforts over the past few weeks in helping organize a huge fundraising women's dance tomorrow night as part of Toronto's Pride celebration - with some of the funds raised going to local women who are already planning their trips to Copenhagen - I'll let them know that their efforts are SO tiring to you.
LOL - OK you do that. You're hilarious.
Thank you.
And seriously though can we try to call a truce and not get into a repeat of our sometimes nasty exchanges of 2005, 2006? I happened to be in the Copenhagen website for the first time in about 2 or 3 months last evening because I was asked by a colleague if they had announced what sports were going to be part of the Outgames in 2009. I simply cut and paste them into a new thread here - without any kind of editorial comment on my part - figuring there probably are people who read this board that may find that to be of interest to them. And quite frankly in view of the fact that I very intentionally did not editorialize at all when posting the list - I was very disappointed to read your sarcastic reply. I probably should have just ignored it - instead of replying in kind - as i did. So we both now have had our sarcastic little exchange - so hopefully it ends there. I'm sure others who read this would be grateful if we did.
You don't like the Outgames for reasons we all know and many people agree with you. I like the idea of the event for reasons I have explained too many times to count here and at least here in Canada - there are a lot of people who agree with me. A view that has not changed because of Montreal's financial failures. We like the baby - even if we now do not have respect for some of the the baby's birth parents. It is obviously a point the two of us will never agree on.
Can we agree on that at least?
And seriously though can we try to call a truce and not get into a repeat of our sometimes nasty exchanges of 2005, 2006? I happened to be in the Copenhagen website for the first time in about 2 or 3 months last evening because I was asked by a colleague if they had announced what sports were going to be part of the Outgames in 2009. I simply cut and paste them into a new thread here - without any kind of editorial comment on my part - figuring there probably are people who read this board that may find that to be of interest to them. And quite frankly in view of the fact that I very intentionally did not editorialize at all when posting the list - I was very disappointed to read your sarcastic reply. I probably should have just ignored it - instead of replying in kind - as i did. So we both now have had our sarcastic little exchange - so hopefully it ends there. I'm sure others who read this would be grateful if we did.
You don't like the Outgames for reasons we all know and many people agree with you. I like the idea of the event for reasons I have explained too many times to count here and at least here in Canada - there are a lot of people who agree with me. A view that has not changed because of Montreal's financial failures. We like the baby - even if we now do not have respect for some of the the baby's birth parents. It is obviously a point the two of us will never agree on.
Can we agree on that at least?
If you don't wish to see replies to your postings, then don't post them. If you think people are going to allow you to just post OutGames propaganda and disregard the purpose of its birth, the nature of its leadership, the inglorious outcome in Montreal, and the potential harm to the overall Gay Games movement, then you truly are a hopeless case. Create a website, control the content, and post to your hearts delight. Otherwise, expect that people who see through all of this - which by now should include you - will respond with commentary in this relatively public forum.
Kevin
I have read your replies and feel that Pat has a point. You are out of line on this one. Could I perhaps suggest that you and the Chicago people start by finishing up the final bits and pieces for the previous Gay Games so that we can have closure. That would send a far better message than any other act.
I would also suggest some advice Kevin here. History is great to look at and comment about but it is only the future which we can influence. GLISA have their Annual Delegates conference in Antwerp in July. Audited accounts will be presented (well according to the agenda they will be). I know also that membership fees will be discussed. GLISA will be hard pressed to make a case for asking for membership fees without offering something significant in return. I know the FGG is going through this pain now.
Pat, I was privy to this sports list about 4 weeks ago. I hear what you say about the excitement in Copenhagen, however I would put a case in point to you in one sport which is dear to my heart. According to the FIBA website, basketball in Denmark has 6,000 participants in total. My local association in Sydney has that many members and we are one of about 50 around NSW. Combine that with the other 6 states and territories, you get a big number. Tourism is one thing, but sports organisation is a completely different kettle of fish. Do they really have the know how to do some of these sports or is this just a working list and play suck it and see. I also note that they only expect 6,500 participants. Assume Volleyball, Swimming and Track and Field take 1,000 each, that does not leave many people to split between 30 odd sports.
I have read your replies and feel that Pat has a point. You are out of line on this one. Could I perhaps suggest that you and the Chicago people start by finishing up the final bits and pieces for the previous Gay Games so that we can have closure. That would send a far better message than any other act.
I would also suggest some advice Kevin here. History is great to look at and comment about but it is only the future which we can influence. GLISA have their Annual Delegates conference in Antwerp in July. Audited accounts will be presented (well according to the agenda they will be). I know also that membership fees will be discussed. GLISA will be hard pressed to make a case for asking for membership fees without offering something significant in return. I know the FGG is going through this pain now.
Pat, I was privy to this sports list about 4 weeks ago. I hear what you say about the excitement in Copenhagen, however I would put a case in point to you in one sport which is dear to my heart. According to the FIBA website, basketball in Denmark has 6,000 participants in total. My local association in Sydney has that many members and we are one of about 50 around NSW. Combine that with the other 6 states and territories, you get a big number. Tourism is one thing, but sports organisation is a completely different kettle of fish. Do they really have the know how to do some of these sports or is this just a working list and play suck it and see. I also note that they only expect 6,500 participants. Assume Volleyball, Swimming and Track and Field take 1,000 each, that does not leave many people to split between 30 odd sports.
Hey JBAL - good questions. I must admit I've wondered if Copenhagen may be deliberately low-balling participant number projections to completely contrast themselves from Montreal's exaggerations. But that is just completely a hunch on my part. Time will tell what ends up happening with their registration numbers. Obviously I wish them well and hope I will be there.
My message to 2009 organizers would be that they should be secure in knowing that there ARE thousands of gay and lesbian athletes around the world who support what you are doing in spite of what the naysayers will post here. And they should take advantage of that to ask for whatever help they may need in organizing the sports that may not be the Danes forte - such as basketball as you suggest. I'm sure there must be some competent basketball organizers withing the EGLSF who I'm sure would be more than happy to assist the Danes with the basketball portion of their program.
Actually I'd be curious to know what people are thinking about Copenhagen 2009 in other places like Australia and Europe. In Canada - I very much have the sense that GLBT athletes are still very much in favour of the Outgames. That certainly is the sentiment I got in Calgary in April, Montreal in May and from my sport contacts here in Toronto.
Like I said - the Outgames still have a lot of supporters within Canada's GLBT sport community. Just like there is for the Gay Games movement too. Unlike some others most of us do not feel those have to be mutually exclusive. Generally Canadians support both - and I don't see that changing.
My message to 2009 organizers would be that they should be secure in knowing that there ARE thousands of gay and lesbian athletes around the world who support what you are doing in spite of what the naysayers will post here. And they should take advantage of that to ask for whatever help they may need in organizing the sports that may not be the Danes forte - such as basketball as you suggest. I'm sure there must be some competent basketball organizers withing the EGLSF who I'm sure would be more than happy to assist the Danes with the basketball portion of their program.
Actually I'd be curious to know what people are thinking about Copenhagen 2009 in other places like Australia and Europe. In Canada - I very much have the sense that GLBT athletes are still very much in favour of the Outgames. That certainly is the sentiment I got in Calgary in April, Montreal in May and from my sport contacts here in Toronto.
Like I said - the Outgames still have a lot of supporters within Canada's GLBT sport community. Just like there is for the Gay Games movement too. Unlike some others most of us do not feel those have to be mutually exclusive. Generally Canadians support both - and I don't see that changing.
QUOTE(Travelpat @ Jun 21 2007, 03:39 PM) 
Hey JBAL - good questions. I must admit I've wondered if Copenhagen may be deliberately low-balling participant number projections to completely contrast themselves from Montreal's exaggerations.
Please refrain from flame-throwing. Thank you. If you have something constructive to say, by all means do so. Otherwise, if you're just going to come onto topics and try to start flame wars, you will be suspended. Thank you.
My own view on Cologne v Copenhagen in Australia is that sports will choose one or the other but not both. Realistically, we would be looking at $7,000 for each games and with a year between, it really won't be on for many. As to participants, who knows what will happen. Many people will be wary of Copenhagen because of Montreal. The FGG sentiment down here is as strong as ever. But GLISA will have an advantage with the Melbourne Outgames. But at the same time, it will depend on who is going. If people will be attracted to meet their friends from the US, then I think Cologne will benefit. Cologne are also in the box seat from the point of view that they are the next in a long line of games going back to 1982. GLISA has still not "changed the world" and is smarting from the Montreal debacle where their lack of oversight saw a bad result occur. Also, I have experienced their "professionalism" down here and I must say it is sadly lacking. I will be interested to see what becomes of NA Outgames II next year. Just having seen the adverse publicity from Team Philadelphia, it does not bode well and that may also be a decisive circumstance. I will also be interested to see how GLISA handle the next bidding process. By their own admission, the bidding process for Copenhagen was not transparent and they would prefer something more transparent. I have seen some press speculation that GLISA already has a number of potential candidate cities for Outgames III but I also note that none of those cities are named.
GLISA's biggest issue to what came to light out of Montreal and that is too much hype and not enough delivery. If Copenhagen is a success, then this might be dispelled but GLISA and Copenhagen must realise they do have a legacy from Montreal to deal with. I note with interest that pretty much all mention of Montreal has disappeared from those websites, almost as if they didn't want it to be remembered. FGG has taken a somewhat different line by providing results for all Gay Games, regardless of the overall financial result and take a view they are the custodians of the spirit of the Gay Games.
GLISA Asia Pacific is contemplating another outgames in AP in 2011. I have highlighted that after 2008 in Melbourne, 2009 in Copenhagen and 2010 in Cologne, people will be weary and will need a break. GLISA is trying overload the world with games without any cohesive plan taking into account other world events (including World Masters Games, which will be held in Sydney in 2009 - four weeks after Copenhagen). My own feeling is that GLISA is not being very professional at all and being deluded by the "value" of the pink dollar.
Something has to give and if I was a betting man, I reckon World Outgames is the the thing that will suffer. Let's face some fundamentals, until GLISA can attract a significantly larger number of people from the USA (who seem to be pro-FGG), they will be pushing the proverbial barrow uphill.
Perhaps GLISA can concentrate more on delivery of regional events and FGG should focus on delivery of the world events.
As to basketball, I am not going to hold my breath on that one Pat. The only real basketball association with any ability to assist is the NGBA. They are USA based and were actively involved in running the Chicago FGG tournament. Will they get involved, I don't know. Perhaps you can ask them. Although I should warn you that their secretary is also Sports Co-Chair of the FGG.
GLISA's biggest issue to what came to light out of Montreal and that is too much hype and not enough delivery. If Copenhagen is a success, then this might be dispelled but GLISA and Copenhagen must realise they do have a legacy from Montreal to deal with. I note with interest that pretty much all mention of Montreal has disappeared from those websites, almost as if they didn't want it to be remembered. FGG has taken a somewhat different line by providing results for all Gay Games, regardless of the overall financial result and take a view they are the custodians of the spirit of the Gay Games.
GLISA Asia Pacific is contemplating another outgames in AP in 2011. I have highlighted that after 2008 in Melbourne, 2009 in Copenhagen and 2010 in Cologne, people will be weary and will need a break. GLISA is trying overload the world with games without any cohesive plan taking into account other world events (including World Masters Games, which will be held in Sydney in 2009 - four weeks after Copenhagen). My own feeling is that GLISA is not being very professional at all and being deluded by the "value" of the pink dollar.
Something has to give and if I was a betting man, I reckon World Outgames is the the thing that will suffer. Let's face some fundamentals, until GLISA can attract a significantly larger number of people from the USA (who seem to be pro-FGG), they will be pushing the proverbial barrow uphill.
Perhaps GLISA can concentrate more on delivery of regional events and FGG should focus on delivery of the world events.
As to basketball, I am not going to hold my breath on that one Pat. The only real basketball association with any ability to assist is the NGBA. They are USA based and were actively involved in running the Chicago FGG tournament. Will they get involved, I don't know. Perhaps you can ask them. Although I should warn you that their secretary is also Sports Co-Chair of the FGG.
Hey JBAL I must admit I thought of your coments about basketball last night when watching John Stewart on the comedy program The Daily Show. Last night they did a comedy piece on the fact that Americans are getting smaller in comparison to some other nationalities. Ironically enough the 'taller' nationalities they compared to were the Dutch and Danes - who on average are about 3" taller than the average American. You would think with that height advantage the Danes have that they would have more people playing that tall man's sport - basketball. ;-)
Pat
Pat
Pat,
You are being very North American in your reference to Basketball. There are many tall guys in Europe that love Volleyball much more than Basketball. As a matter of fact, several years ago a stat that caught my eye was that Football (Soccer) was the #1 sport in the world when it came to participant numbers and #2 was Volleyball. In North America we are fooled into believing that Basketball and Hockey are the most incredible sports with the most participants but the rest of the world doesn't agree with us.
I would refer to your ocmments about Canadians and ask you to withdraw your conclusions since you have achieved them via a specific sample - people that have and or will participate in OutGames. Their views are hardly representative.
I am actually not saying that to be argumentative as my point is one that we agree on- most people don't pay attention to the administrative details and therefore will make their decisions to support or not support based on ability to participate. Case in point is the group of athletes from here in Vancouver that said they didn't trust the folks in Montreal in their dealings with the FGG but had decided to go there anyways because it was more convenient for them. I wouldn't consider them supporters of either program or concept.
Back to Coaching.......
Ken
You are being very North American in your reference to Basketball. There are many tall guys in Europe that love Volleyball much more than Basketball. As a matter of fact, several years ago a stat that caught my eye was that Football (Soccer) was the #1 sport in the world when it came to participant numbers and #2 was Volleyball. In North America we are fooled into believing that Basketball and Hockey are the most incredible sports with the most participants but the rest of the world doesn't agree with us.
I would refer to your ocmments about Canadians and ask you to withdraw your conclusions since you have achieved them via a specific sample - people that have and or will participate in OutGames. Their views are hardly representative.
I am actually not saying that to be argumentative as my point is one that we agree on- most people don't pay attention to the administrative details and therefore will make their decisions to support or not support based on ability to participate. Case in point is the group of athletes from here in Vancouver that said they didn't trust the folks in Montreal in their dealings with the FGG but had decided to go there anyways because it was more convenient for them. I wouldn't consider them supporters of either program or concept.
Back to Coaching.......
Ken
For those who are interested in the number, www.fiba.com will provide links to each country association for basketball as well as detailing the number of registered players in a country.
A little tidbit about the 2009 Outgames: the aquatic sports (swimming, polo, synchro, diving, open swim) component will be hosted by the local club, the Copenhagen Mermates, and has been designated the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) championships for 2009 (final contract approval pending) by the IGLA member clubs.
Of even more interest: the host club stated in their bid presentation to IGLA that they would host the aquatics championships, even if the 2009 Outgames don't take place as planned...
Interesting...
Of even more interest: the host club stated in their bid presentation to IGLA that they would host the aquatics championships, even if the 2009 Outgames don't take place as planned...
Interesting...
Quick question...
Team Rehoboth Beach will be having a meeting this summer to make some decisions including whether or not to field a team to OutGames Copenhagen in 2009. One of our members asked me whether or not Team Rehoboth Beach would be able to march in under the banner of Delaware and be announced as "Delaware" or whether we would just be lumped in with a large US team. Does anybody out there know the answer?
Rich Williams
President
Team Rehoboth Beach
Team Rehoboth Beach will be having a meeting this summer to make some decisions including whether or not to field a team to OutGames Copenhagen in 2009. One of our members asked me whether or not Team Rehoboth Beach would be able to march in under the banner of Delaware and be announced as "Delaware" or whether we would just be lumped in with a large US team. Does anybody out there know the answer?
Rich Williams
President
Team Rehoboth Beach
In Montreal, individual countries were named, but they did not march out individually. We came out all together which was nice. As an aussie, we are always one of the first out and find it a bit of bore after an hour of everybody else coming out, like what happened in Chicago.
QUOTE(jbal2009 @ Jun 27 2007, 08:32 PM)
In Montreal, individual countries were named, but they did not march out individually. We came out all together which was nice. As an aussie, we are always one of the first out and find it a bit of bore after an hour of everybody else coming out, like what happened in Chicago.
Thanks jbal. That is helpful information which I will pass along. Funny how I remember marching in with Washington DC in Sydney and feeling like we were missing out because we were outside for quite awhile.
I guess having only known participation as a city team with a regional identity it is hard to imagine how the experience would be different if everybody just comes in randomly without being assembled and announced in an Olympic fashion as a city team, or in the case you mention not even being announced upon entry as a national team.
QUOTE(jbal2009 @ Jun 21 2007, 11:53 PM)
Let's face some fundamentals, until GLISA can attract a significantly larger number of people from the USA (who seem to be pro-FGG), they will be pushing the proverbial barrow uphill.
The fact that "Montreal" is now history should make selling GLISA to Americans a bit easier.
The main obstacle GLISA faces, though, is that FGG is viewed by Americans as *the* founder of international games for gay folks and is owed quite a bit of loyalty for getting the whole ball rolling. GLISA is viewed by some as an upstart which is owed less loyalty. Given its origin as a vehicle for the Montreal organization -- or is that vice versa? -- many see Montreal/GLISA as being partly responsible for a schism in the gay sporting world. Additionally, while I'm not going to say that the Montreal organizers were anti-American, they did occasionally try to appeal to non-US athletes by employing a less than complimentary stance toward those of us south of Canada. Given that the Montreal organizers and GLISA were so intertwined, it is possible that some Americans will look upon GLISA as somewhat hostile to them. IT may not be a fair assessment, but it's out there and GLISA will need to find a way around that if they want greater participation from Americans.
Aquaman,
You wrote: "FGG is viewed by Americans as *the* founder of international games for gay folks".
I believe your statement is true. Do you? But I also believe that many people from Europe and Canada, as elsewhere, believe this statement is true as well.
In fact, it is a fact, or it is not a fact.
Can you acknowledge?
Thanks,
TRL
GGs II, III, IV, VI
"Put on the Cologne" (and maybe Copenhagen for IGLA??)
You wrote: "FGG is viewed by Americans as *the* founder of international games for gay folks".
I believe your statement is true. Do you? But I also believe that many people from Europe and Canada, as elsewhere, believe this statement is true as well.
In fact, it is a fact, or it is not a fact.
Can you acknowledge?
Thanks,
TRL
GGs II, III, IV, VI
"Put on the Cologne" (and maybe Copenhagen for IGLA??)
QUOTE(TRL @ Jul 10 2007, 06:30 PM)
Aquaman,
You wrote: "FGG is viewed by Americans as *the* founder of international games for gay folks".
I believe your statement is true. Do you? But I also believe that many people from Europe and Canada, as elsewhere, believe this statement is true as well.
In fact, it is a fact, or it is not a fact.
Can you acknowledge?
Thanks,
TRL
GGs II, III, IV, VI
"Put on the Cologne" (and maybe Copenhagen for IGLA??)
Yes, I do believe that FGG is the driving force that started gay international sports competition.
I was going to be a bit cynical but decided I will stick to facts.
Chicago has announced the final results of GG VII - break even.
Released a few hours ago:
[url=http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/article.php?aid=175]
http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/article.php?aid=175[/url]
[Full text below]
[from the GGVII Website]
Chicago's 2006 Gay Games Declared a Financial Success
At one-year anniversary, Chicago closes books on international sports & cultural festival
2007-07-10
One year after Chicago hosted nearly 12,000 sport and cultural participants at
the 2006 Gay Games®, Chicago Games, Inc., (CGI) the host organization for the
event, announced today that it has completed the post-Games fundraising and wind
down process and that the 2006 Gay Games broke even. Such a positive financial
result reverses a 20-year trend, having not been achieved since Gay Games II in
1986. CGI accomplished the result with 2 fewer years planning time than most Gay
Games.
"We are extremely grateful to our many donors, sponsors, volunteers, partners and vendors whose commitment and contributions made
today’s announcement possible," said Tracy Baim, CGI board Co-Vice Chair and
leader of the wind-down efforts. "Each deserves the appreciation of our city and
the worldwide LGBT sports community."
Sponsors and donors are still listed on the Gay Games website.
"We would like to extend special appreciation to partners Dick Uyvari and Joe La
Pat, Chicagoans who significantly funded the 2006 Gay Games international
scholarship program and created a Gay Games matching grant program to assist in
the post-Games fundraising," said Sam Coady, CGI Board Co-Chair.
After a heat wave and other circumstances increased expenses and created the
need for additional fundraising, Uyvari and La Pat donated additional financial
support. Uvyari is a long-time Gay Games supporter, having competed in six of
the seven Gay Games. Other key post-Games donors included Fred Eychaner, Michael
Leppen, and former U.S. Ambassador James Hormel and his partner, Tim Wu.
"We also extend a special thanks to the international Federation of Gay Games
for their significant assistance in ensuring that the 2006 Gay Games finished in
a financially sound position," said Kevin Boyer, CGI Board Co-Vice Chair. The
FGG is the international governing body of the quadrennial sports & cultural
festival. Going forward, the FGG will continue to receive royalties from the
2006 Gay Games DVD, photography-based products and residual commemorative
merchandise sales.
More than 100 other individuals, vendors and partners also added their support
through cash and in-kind donations and expense reductions. The law firm of
Sidley Austin extended its pro bono service, assisting CGI as it wound down
operations and finances. CGI board members Tracy Baim, Suzanne Arnold, Kevin
Boyer, Sam Coady, Kurt Dahl, Eric McCool, Christopher Pries, Renae Ogletree and
David Woody as well as CGI former staff members Liz Valenti, Cathy Seabaugh, and
Rob Smitherman were among those who assisted in the wind-down efforts.
Financial Promises Kept
"In 2003 when we launched the bid to host the 2006 Gay Games, we promised our
local LGBT community, the City of Chicago, and the worldwide LGBT sports
movement that the 2006 Gay Games would break even financially," said Sam Coady.
"We also made the commitment to leave a lasting and positive legacy for future
Gay Games hosts - a sound business model upon which future Gay Games could be
built. We are proud today to have fulfilled those promises."
The Gay Games have always been a boon for the local economy. Nevertheless, the
past three Gay Games host committees lost significant amounts of money,
threatening the future of the quadrennial sports & culture festival. For the
first time ever, the Gay Games also faced a competing LGBT sports event. Held in
Montreal just one week after the Gay Games, that competing event's host
organization ended up losing several million dollars.
Chicago’s business model differentiated itself by dramatically increasing
corporate partnerships, relying significantly upon volunteer professionals and pro bono
services, establishing a sponsored worldwide marketing and media campaign, and
outsourcing non-core elements to third parties.
The 2006 Gay Games themselves contributed $50 to $80 million to the local
economy, with some estimating that another 10 years of positive LGBT tourism
visibility will generate millions more dollars in the long term.
"We promised our community in Chicago that our Gay Games fundraising campaign
would not undercut other important community projects, including the Center on
Halsted," said Suzanne Arnold, Board Co-Chair. "Three-and-one-half-years later,
our beautiful new community center is open and Chicago’s LGBT community is
stronger than ever. Our local LGBT sports organizations are the strongest
they’ve ever been, offering more sports to more people than ever before."
Legacy for Chicago and Cologne
"Looking to the future, we’re proud to have helped inspire our great Mayor
Richard M. Daley to launch a bid for the 2016 Olympic Games®," said Kevin Boyer. "Our experience has
demonstrated that Chicagoans come together in support of great and important
civic endeavors, and we know that almost 3,000 Gay Games-trained volunteers and
400 business sponsors stand ready to help Chicago host the 2016 Olympics."
"At the Gay Games VII Closing Ceremony on July 22, 2006, Chicago passed the
symbols of the Gay Games to Cologne, Germany, the host of the 2010 Gay Games,"
said Tracy Baim. "Today, we give to Cologne an even more important legacy - a
Gay Games movement that is stronger and more vibrant. We look forward to coming
together once again in just three years in celebration of the fundamental
principles of Dr. Tom Waddell and the Gay Games - Participation, Inclusion and
Personal Best™. See you in Cologne!"
[END]
Chicago has announced the final results of GG VII - break even.
Released a few hours ago:
[url=http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/article.php?aid=175]
http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/article.php?aid=175[/url]
[Full text below]
[from the GGVII Website]
Chicago's 2006 Gay Games Declared a Financial Success
At one-year anniversary, Chicago closes books on international sports & cultural festival
2007-07-10
One year after Chicago hosted nearly 12,000 sport and cultural participants at
the 2006 Gay Games®, Chicago Games, Inc., (CGI) the host organization for the
event, announced today that it has completed the post-Games fundraising and wind
down process and that the 2006 Gay Games broke even. Such a positive financial
result reverses a 20-year trend, having not been achieved since Gay Games II in
1986. CGI accomplished the result with 2 fewer years planning time than most Gay
Games.
"We are extremely grateful to our many donors, sponsors, volunteers, partners and vendors whose commitment and contributions made
today’s announcement possible," said Tracy Baim, CGI board Co-Vice Chair and
leader of the wind-down efforts. "Each deserves the appreciation of our city and
the worldwide LGBT sports community."
Sponsors and donors are still listed on the Gay Games website.
"We would like to extend special appreciation to partners Dick Uyvari and Joe La
Pat, Chicagoans who significantly funded the 2006 Gay Games international
scholarship program and created a Gay Games matching grant program to assist in
the post-Games fundraising," said Sam Coady, CGI Board Co-Chair.
After a heat wave and other circumstances increased expenses and created the
need for additional fundraising, Uyvari and La Pat donated additional financial
support. Uvyari is a long-time Gay Games supporter, having competed in six of
the seven Gay Games. Other key post-Games donors included Fred Eychaner, Michael
Leppen, and former U.S. Ambassador James Hormel and his partner, Tim Wu.
"We also extend a special thanks to the international Federation of Gay Games
for their significant assistance in ensuring that the 2006 Gay Games finished in
a financially sound position," said Kevin Boyer, CGI Board Co-Vice Chair. The
FGG is the international governing body of the quadrennial sports & cultural
festival. Going forward, the FGG will continue to receive royalties from the
2006 Gay Games DVD, photography-based products and residual commemorative
merchandise sales.
More than 100 other individuals, vendors and partners also added their support
through cash and in-kind donations and expense reductions. The law firm of
Sidley Austin extended its pro bono service, assisting CGI as it wound down
operations and finances. CGI board members Tracy Baim, Suzanne Arnold, Kevin
Boyer, Sam Coady, Kurt Dahl, Eric McCool, Christopher Pries, Renae Ogletree and
David Woody as well as CGI former staff members Liz Valenti, Cathy Seabaugh, and
Rob Smitherman were among those who assisted in the wind-down efforts.
Financial Promises Kept
"In 2003 when we launched the bid to host the 2006 Gay Games, we promised our
local LGBT community, the City of Chicago, and the worldwide LGBT sports
movement that the 2006 Gay Games would break even financially," said Sam Coady.
"We also made the commitment to leave a lasting and positive legacy for future
Gay Games hosts - a sound business model upon which future Gay Games could be
built. We are proud today to have fulfilled those promises."
The Gay Games have always been a boon for the local economy. Nevertheless, the
past three Gay Games host committees lost significant amounts of money,
threatening the future of the quadrennial sports & culture festival. For the
first time ever, the Gay Games also faced a competing LGBT sports event. Held in
Montreal just one week after the Gay Games, that competing event's host
organization ended up losing several million dollars.
Chicago’s business model differentiated itself by dramatically increasing
corporate partnerships, relying significantly upon volunteer professionals and pro bono
services, establishing a sponsored worldwide marketing and media campaign, and
outsourcing non-core elements to third parties.
The 2006 Gay Games themselves contributed $50 to $80 million to the local
economy, with some estimating that another 10 years of positive LGBT tourism
visibility will generate millions more dollars in the long term.
"We promised our community in Chicago that our Gay Games fundraising campaign
would not undercut other important community projects, including the Center on
Halsted," said Suzanne Arnold, Board Co-Chair. "Three-and-one-half-years later,
our beautiful new community center is open and Chicago’s LGBT community is
stronger than ever. Our local LGBT sports organizations are the strongest
they’ve ever been, offering more sports to more people than ever before."
Legacy for Chicago and Cologne
"Looking to the future, we’re proud to have helped inspire our great Mayor
Richard M. Daley to launch a bid for the 2016 Olympic Games®," said Kevin Boyer. "Our experience has
demonstrated that Chicagoans come together in support of great and important
civic endeavors, and we know that almost 3,000 Gay Games-trained volunteers and
400 business sponsors stand ready to help Chicago host the 2016 Olympics."
"At the Gay Games VII Closing Ceremony on July 22, 2006, Chicago passed the
symbols of the Gay Games to Cologne, Germany, the host of the 2010 Gay Games,"
said Tracy Baim. "Today, we give to Cologne an even more important legacy - a
Gay Games movement that is stronger and more vibrant. We look forward to coming
together once again in just three years in celebration of the fundamental
principles of Dr. Tom Waddell and the Gay Games - Participation, Inclusion and
Personal Best™. See you in Cologne!"
[END]
QUOTE(jbal2009 @ Jul 11 2007, 12:50 AM)
I was going to be a bit cynical but decided I will stick to facts.
Chicago has announced the final results of GG VII - break even.
Released a few hours ago:
[url=http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/article.php?aid=175]
http://www.gaygameschicago.org/media/article.php?aid=175[/url]
[Full text below]
[from the GGVII Website]
Chicago's 2006 Gay Games Declared a Financial Success
At one-year anniversary, Chicago closes books on international sports & cultural festival
2007-07-10
One year after Chicago hosted nearly 12,000 sport and cultural participants at
the 2006 Gay Games®, Chicago Games, Inc., (CGI) the host organization for the
event, announced today that it has completed the post-Games fundraising and wind
down process and that the 2006 Gay Games broke even. Such a positive financial
result reverses a 20-year trend, having not been achieved since Gay Games II in
1986. CGI accomplished the result with 2 fewer years planning time than most Gay
Games.
"We are extremely grateful to our many donors, sponsors, volunteers, partners and vendors whose commitment and contributions made
today’s announcement possible," said Tracy Baim, CGI board Co-Vice Chair and
leader of the wind-down efforts. "Each deserves the appreciation of our city and
the worldwide LGBT sports community."
Sponsors and donors are still listed on the Gay Games website.
"We would like to extend special appreciation to partners Dick Uyvari and Joe La
Pat, Chicagoans who significantly funded the 2006 Gay Games international
scholarship program and created a Gay Games matching grant program to assist in
the post-Games fundraising," said Sam Coady, CGI Board Co-Chair.
After a heat wave and other circumstances increased expenses and created the
need for additional fundraising, Uyvari and La Pat donated additional financial
support. Uvyari is a long-time Gay Games supporter, having competed in six of
the seven Gay Games. Other key post-Games donors included Fred Eychaner, Michael
Leppen, and former U.S. Ambassador James Hormel and his partner, Tim Wu.
"We also extend a special thanks to the international Federation of Gay Games
for their significant assistance in ensuring that the 2006 Gay Games finished in
a financially sound position," said Kevin Boyer, CGI Board Co-Vice Chair. The
FGG is the international governing body of the quadrennial sports & cultural
festival. Going forward, the FGG will continue to receive royalties from the
2006 Gay Games DVD, photography-based products and residual commemorative
merchandise sales.
More than 100 other individuals, vendors and partners also added their support
through cash and in-kind donations and expense reductions. The law firm of
Sidley Austin extended its pro bono service, assisting CGI as it wound down
operations and finances. CGI board members Tracy Baim, Suzanne Arnold, Kevin
Boyer, Sam Coady, Kurt Dahl, Eric McCool, Christopher Pries, Renae Ogletree and
David Woody as well as CGI former staff members Liz Valenti, Cathy Seabaugh, and
Rob Smitherman were among those who assisted in the wind-down efforts.
Financial Promises Kept
"In 2003 when we launched the bid to host the 2006 Gay Games, we promised our
local LGBT community, the City of Chicago, and the worldwide LGBT sports
movement that the 2006 Gay Games would break even financially," said Sam Coady.
"We also made the commitment to leave a lasting and positive legacy for future
Gay Games hosts - a sound business model upon which future Gay Games could be
built. We are proud today to have fulfilled those promises."
The Gay Games have always been a boon for the local economy. Nevertheless, the
past three Gay Games host committees lost significant amounts of money,
threatening the future of the quadrennial sports & culture festival. For the
first time ever, the Gay Games also faced a competing LGBT sports event. Held in
Montreal just one week after the Gay Games, that competing event's host
organization ended up losing several million dollars.
Chicago’s business model differentiated itself by dramatically increasing
corporate partnerships, relying significantly upon volunteer professionals and pro bono
services, establishing a sponsored worldwide marketing and media campaign, and
outsourcing non-core elements to third parties.
The 2006 Gay Games themselves contributed $50 to $80 million to the local
economy, with some estimating that another 10 years of positive LGBT tourism
visibility will generate millions more dollars in the long term.
"We promised our community in Chicago that our Gay Games fundraising campaign
would not undercut other important community projects, including the Center on
Halsted," said Suzanne Arnold, Board Co-Chair. "Three-and-one-half-years later,
our beautiful new community center is open and Chicago’s LGBT community is
stronger than ever. Our local LGBT sports organizations are the strongest
they’ve ever been, offering more sports to more people than ever before."
Legacy for Chicago and Cologne
"Looking to the future, we’re proud to have helped inspire our great Mayor
Richard M. Daley to launch a bid for the 2016 Olympic Games®," said Kevin Boyer. "Our experience has
demonstrated that Chicagoans come together in support of great and important
civic endeavors, and we know that almost 3,000 Gay Games-trained volunteers and
400 business sponsors stand ready to help Chicago host the 2016 Olympics."
"At the Gay Games VII Closing Ceremony on July 22, 2006, Chicago passed the
symbols of the Gay Games to Cologne, Germany, the host of the 2010 Gay Games,"
said Tracy Baim. "Today, we give to Cologne an even more important legacy - a
Gay Games movement that is stronger and more vibrant. We look forward to coming
together once again in just three years in celebration of the fundamental
principles of Dr. Tom Waddell and the Gay Games - Participation, Inclusion and
Personal Best™. See you in Cologne!"
[END]
There's nothing to be cynical about. This is nothing but EXCELLENT news!
When I meant I was going to be cynical, I was wondering why Kevin had not posted this when it came out.
QUOTE(jbal2009 @ Jul 11 2007, 04:50 AM)
When I meant I was going to be cynical, I was wondering why Kevin had not posted this when it came out.
jbal - He probably would have at some point, but yesterday he was busy writing the copy and distributing the content.
QUOTE(jbal2009 @ Jul 11 2007, 12:50 AM)
I was going to be a bit cynical but decided I will stick to facts.
QUOTE(jbal2009 @ Jul 11 2007, 04:50 AM)
When I meant I was going to be cynical, I was wondering why Kevin had not posted this when it came out.
Your comment is a good example of why I try hard to avoid posting in this viper pit. An event that lost $5 million gets glorified and warranted criticism - unlike any other part of this chat board - results in a "play nice" admonishment. However, an event that managed to break even, for the first time in 20 years, results in a backhanded "going to be a bit cynical" slap. It's all pretty boring actually.
Outsports got a copy of the release. I believe Jim is writing a story.
QUOTE(KevinB @ Jul 11 2007, 12:54 PM)
Your comment is a good example of why I try hard to avoid posting in this viper pit.
Try harder.
QUOTE(Joe in Philly @ Jul 11 2007, 11:02 PM)
Try harder.
And clever too!
Congratulations, Kevin, and thanks to all of the wonderful folks with Chicago and beyond who stuck it out to follow up a great Gay Games with efforts beyond the extraordinary to achieve this historic milestone. I know you do not claim to have generated half a billion in PR, but certainly what you have done is priceless.
Posting of the news with other comments can be found at:
http://ebar.com/blogs/?p=69
Looking forward to Cologne already!
roger
Posting of the news with other comments can be found at:
http://ebar.com/blogs/?p=69
Looking forward to Cologne already!
roger
Some quick International sports updates....
The Asia Pacific Outgames 2008 in Melbourne have announced some of the venues they will be using for their event January 30 - February 3, 2008.
https://www.clubsonline.com.au/Additional%2...mes/enews3.html
Having a look at some of the venues takes me back to some of the sites I took in the last time I was in Melbourne. Undoubtedly one of the highlight venues will be for those taking part in tennis - which is to be held at Melbourne Park - home of the Australian Open.
It should be quite the fun summer next year downunder between the Outgames/Midsumma festivities in Melbourne with the celebration of Sydney's 30th anniversary of Mardi Gras taking place a month later.
The Eurogames just successfully concluded in Antwerp with 3000 participants and over 10,000 visitors taking in all the activities in Belgium. Next up - Barcelona in 2008. Barcelona - based on bookings we have done for there and nearby gay-friendly Sitges - seems to becoming 'the' gay hotspot in Europe these days. So I am sure the Eurogames will draw very well there next year before we all make our plans for Copenhagen's Outgames and/or Cologne's Gay Games in 2009 and 2010 respectively.
http://2007.eurogames.info/index.php
Very cool 'Fair Play' intro page on the EGLSF website that you might want to check out.
http://www.eglsf.info/
The Asia Pacific Outgames 2008 in Melbourne have announced some of the venues they will be using for their event January 30 - February 3, 2008.
https://www.clubsonline.com.au/Additional%2...mes/enews3.html
Having a look at some of the venues takes me back to some of the sites I took in the last time I was in Melbourne. Undoubtedly one of the highlight venues will be for those taking part in tennis - which is to be held at Melbourne Park - home of the Australian Open.
It should be quite the fun summer next year downunder between the Outgames/Midsumma festivities in Melbourne with the celebration of Sydney's 30th anniversary of Mardi Gras taking place a month later.
The Eurogames just successfully concluded in Antwerp with 3000 participants and over 10,000 visitors taking in all the activities in Belgium. Next up - Barcelona in 2008. Barcelona - based on bookings we have done for there and nearby gay-friendly Sitges - seems to becoming 'the' gay hotspot in Europe these days. So I am sure the Eurogames will draw very well there next year before we all make our plans for Copenhagen's Outgames and/or Cologne's Gay Games in 2009 and 2010 respectively.
http://2007.eurogames.info/index.php
Very cool 'Fair Play' intro page on the EGLSF website that you might want to check out.
http://www.eglsf.info/
isn't it grand what a website can do to pretty things up.
have to admit, there are some creative types helping to organise what is usually called the midsumma sports festival, but being 'rebranded' to look like something else. Peop;e will wake up to this **** at some point i guess.
Yes it is the 30th Sydney Gay and Lesbain Mardi Gras celebration just as it was at the 20th (i am one of the dwindling few who were the originall 78'ers who landed in jail), still active in our community and i suspect will be bigger than 'Outgames' but a month inbetween will probably mean a small overlay of visitors hanging around.
Some quick International sports updates....
The Asia Pacific Outgames 2008 in Melbourne have announced some of the venues they will be using for their event January 30 - February 3, 2008.
https://www.clubsonline.com.au/Additional%2...mes/enews3.html
Having a look at some of the venues takes me back to some of the sites I took in the last time I was in Melbourne. Undoubtedly one of the highlight venues will be for those taking part in tennis - which is to be held at Melbourne Park - home of the Australian Open.
It should be quite the fun summer next year downunder between the Outgames/Midsumma festivities in Melbourne with the celebration of Sydney's 30th anniversary of Mardi Gras taking place a month later.
The Eurogames just successfully concluded in Antwerp with 3000 participants and over 10,000 visitors taking in all the activities in Belgium. Next up - Barcelona in 2008. Barcelona - based on bookings we have done for there and nearby gay-friendly Sitges - seems to becoming 'the' gay hotspot in Europe these days. So I am sure the Eurogames will draw very well there next year before we all make our plans for Copenhagen's Outgames and/or Cologne's Gay Games in 2009 and 2010 respectively.
http://2007.eurogames.info/index.php
Very cool 'Fair Play' intro page on the EGLSF website that you might want to check out.
http://www.eglsf.info/
have to admit, there are some creative types helping to organise what is usually called the midsumma sports festival, but being 'rebranded' to look like something else. Peop;e will wake up to this **** at some point i guess.
Yes it is the 30th Sydney Gay and Lesbain Mardi Gras celebration just as it was at the 20th (i am one of the dwindling few who were the originall 78'ers who landed in jail), still active in our community and i suspect will be bigger than 'Outgames' but a month inbetween will probably mean a small overlay of visitors hanging around.
QUOTE(Travelpat @ Jul 18 2007, 05:41 PM)
Some quick International sports updates....
The Asia Pacific Outgames 2008 in Melbourne have announced some of the venues they will be using for their event January 30 - February 3, 2008.
https://www.clubsonline.com.au/Additional%2...mes/enews3.html
Having a look at some of the venues takes me back to some of the sites I took in the last time I was in Melbourne. Undoubtedly one of the highlight venues will be for those taking part in tennis - which is to be held at Melbourne Park - home of the Australian Open.
It should be quite the fun summer next year downunder between the Outgames/Midsumma festivities in Melbourne with the celebration of Sydney's 30th anniversary of Mardi Gras taking place a month later.
The Eurogames just successfully concluded in Antwerp with 3000 participants and over 10,000 visitors taking in all the activities in Belgium. Next up - Barcelona in 2008. Barcelona - based on bookings we have done for there and nearby gay-friendly Sitges - seems to becoming 'the' gay hotspot in Europe these days. So I am sure the Eurogames will draw very well there next year before we all make our plans for Copenhagen's Outgames and/or Cologne's Gay Games in 2009 and 2010 respectively.
http://2007.eurogames.info/index.php
Very cool 'Fair Play' intro page on the EGLSF website that you might want to check out.
http://www.eglsf.info/
I am impressed - somebody does bother to read these blogs outside the usual group
http://www.ebar.com/columns/column.php?sec=sports
And as to the comments regarding the Asia Pacific Outgames, I applaud the organisers for taking a low risk approach to the event. My sport is not being played in Melbourne, but I would encourage as many AsiaPac athletes as possible to attend. It is the first regional event in this part of the world for a few years and while they have used the Midsumma Festival as a basis, they have glitzed it up quite a lot - state of the art venues, centralised registration, branding, etc. By providing this umbrella over the top of existing smaller events, they have managed to provide better benefits for all clubs involved.
Already, there has been an increase in a sport unknown in Melbourne - hockey (the proper kind, not the stuff played on ice). With the help of the Sydney Hockey team, Melbourne are getting a hockey team put together for the games. This is a real achievement of the entire community in Australia banding together to get some real results. Mind you, if we look at the Gay Games, they have been doing this since 1982
http://www.ebar.com/columns/column.php?sec=sports
And as to the comments regarding the Asia Pacific Outgames, I applaud the organisers for taking a low risk approach to the event. My sport is not being played in Melbourne, but I would encourage as many AsiaPac athletes as possible to attend. It is the first regional event in this part of the world for a few years and while they have used the Midsumma Festival as a basis, they have glitzed it up quite a lot - state of the art venues, centralised registration, branding, etc. By providing this umbrella over the top of existing smaller events, they have managed to provide better benefits for all clubs involved.
Already, there has been an increase in a sport unknown in Melbourne - hockey (the proper kind, not the stuff played on ice). With the help of the Sydney Hockey team, Melbourne are getting a hockey team put together for the games. This is a real achievement of the entire community in Australia banding together to get some real results. Mind you, if we look at the Gay Games, they have been doing this since 1982
I think its very sad that Australians couldn't have organised aregional games without having a dicredited organistion involved. We used to have a two yearly national event called Australian Gaymes which was shared around the states mainly Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. They haven't been held for a long time. However, I have suggested to various people that this be resurrected, several times and if agreed would have supported it with helping to organise, but unfortunately those with 'influence' chose to support this GLISA charade. Sydney has a much bigger sporting community and could have done a great job.
Oh well, the Commonwealth Games couldn't entice people down to Melbourne so maybe this event thinks its got something special!
I still wonder where the money is coming from..Let's hope not a repeat of a repeat of a repeat.
Kate
And as to the comments regarding the Asia Pacific Outgames, I applaud the organisers for taking a low risk approach to the event. My sport is not being played in Melbourne, but I would encourage as many AsiaPac athletes as possible to attend. It is the first regional event in this part of the world for a few years and while they have used the Midsumma Festival as a basis, they have glitzed it up quite a lot - state of the art venues, centralised registration, branding, etc. By providing this umbrella over the top of existing smaller events, they have managed to provide better benefits for all clubs involved.
Already, there has been an increase in a sport unknown in Melbourne - hockey (the proper kind, not the stuff played on ice). With the help of the Sydney Hockey team, Melbourne are getting a hockey team put together for the games. This is a real achievement of the entire community in Australia banding together to get some real results. Mind you, if we look at the Gay Games, they have been doing this since 1982
[/quote]
Oh well, the Commonwealth Games couldn't entice people down to Melbourne so maybe this event thinks its got something special!
I still wonder where the money is coming from..Let's hope not a repeat of a repeat of a repeat.
Kate
And as to the comments regarding the Asia Pacific Outgames, I applaud the organisers for taking a low risk approach to the event. My sport is not being played in Melbourne, but I would encourage as many AsiaPac athletes as possible to attend. It is the first regional event in this part of the world for a few years and while they have used the Midsumma Festival as a basis, they have glitzed it up quite a lot - state of the art venues, centralised registration, branding, etc. By providing this umbrella over the top of existing smaller events, they have managed to provide better benefits for all clubs involved.
Already, there has been an increase in a sport unknown in Melbourne - hockey (the proper kind, not the stuff played on ice). With the help of the Sydney Hockey team, Melbourne are getting a hockey team put together for the games. This is a real achievement of the entire community in Australia banding together to get some real results. Mind you, if we look at the Gay Games, they have been doing this since 1982
[/quote]
What a pity people can't move on.
KevinB seems to want to be the public voice of the Gay Games but I suggest he is doing them a great disservice. I want to hear GG people saying: yes. we have some competition, that just makes us want to be better. Kevin, if you have a personal gripe, keep it to yourself; don't diminish people's respect for the Gay Games with your blathering (I assume you are associated with the FGG in some way).
The Kate person also seems to have a personal grudge to bear. Honey, Australians have moved on. We are a long way from the rest of the world and need to take advantage of any events we can get to without overseas air fares. Who cares how it evolved or who is running it? As far as I know people are going from all over Australia and they will all enjoy themselves. Nice of you to offer to help run alternative events but, Honey, who wants to work with a permanent complainer like you? Get over it!
And jbal, this is a board about Copenhagen, go and post your propaganda on a Cologne board.
Travelpat, you seem to be qualified to comment on Copenhagen so at least you are posting on the right board but, sweetie, do stop trying to goad everyone else. And you know, if you don't respond to other people's silly antagonisms, they might just give up.
There WAS a schism board. Everybody, the SCHISM IS OVER. Use this board for constructive criticism about the Copenhagen event, useful information about travel, accommodation and venues and to express concerns about costs, the plumbing or whatever. Let's get enthusiastic about every event we can attend. There are millions of us playing sport around the world and only a few thousand at Gay Games and Outgames. Plenty of room for more events and more participants but who will want to go if the public constantly sees a bitch session?
PLEASE, PLEASE, DO NOT MAKE THIS A NEW SCHISM BOARD. Thank you!
KevinB seems to want to be the public voice of the Gay Games but I suggest he is doing them a great disservice. I want to hear GG people saying: yes. we have some competition, that just makes us want to be better. Kevin, if you have a personal gripe, keep it to yourself; don't diminish people's respect for the Gay Games with your blathering (I assume you are associated with the FGG in some way).
The Kate person also seems to have a personal grudge to bear. Honey, Australians have moved on. We are a long way from the rest of the world and need to take advantage of any events we can get to without overseas air fares. Who cares how it evolved or who is running it? As far as I know people are going from all over Australia and they will all enjoy themselves. Nice of you to offer to help run alternative events but, Honey, who wants to work with a permanent complainer like you? Get over it!
And jbal, this is a board about Copenhagen, go and post your propaganda on a Cologne board.
Travelpat, you seem to be qualified to comment on Copenhagen so at least you are posting on the right board but, sweetie, do stop trying to goad everyone else. And you know, if you don't respond to other people's silly antagonisms, they might just give up.
There WAS a schism board. Everybody, the SCHISM IS OVER. Use this board for constructive criticism about the Copenhagen event, useful information about travel, accommodation and venues and to express concerns about costs, the plumbing or whatever. Let's get enthusiastic about every event we can attend. There are millions of us playing sport around the world and only a few thousand at Gay Games and Outgames. Plenty of room for more events and more participants but who will want to go if the public constantly sees a bitch session?
PLEASE, PLEASE, DO NOT MAKE THIS A NEW SCHISM BOARD. Thank you!
QUOTE(SydPlayer @ Jul 20 2007, 01:34 AM)
Everybody, the SCHISM IS OVER.
Obviously not.
SydPlayer – WOW, why on earth would you make such a ridiculous post, you’ve done ZERO research on the topics. Virtually all your posted info is incorrect. Why embarrass yourself?
I’d be curious to know who this ‘SydPlayer’ really is. Clearly it’s somebody that’s intentionally popped on to stir up some nonsense by posting inaccurate garble
I’d be curious to know who this ‘SydPlayer’ really is. Clearly it’s somebody that’s intentionally popped on to stir up some nonsense by posting inaccurate garble
Syd? Who the heck are you? "A couple of thousand at Gay Games"? Indeed.
Hey All,
While I don't want to suggest that SydPlayer has a point - he does in regards to his reflections on the way the world is and the amount of interest that an awful lot of people have in regards to making decisions.
First off though it is at least a bit ironic that his post attacks numerous people and then begs everyone to not turn this thread into a schism thread.
On a surface level, I can agree with him/her that it appears a lot of people do not look into the background of the groups running the events. On closer review it is clear that the Montreal folks based their entire marketing approach on that belief. If you believe that achieving 50% of your projections is a success, then you would think the folks in Montreal got it right. I am glad to say that the louder group of participants - the party gang were fooled but ultimately not the target market. I am also happy to say that Chicago was clearly able to target the audience better in a shorter period of time. Can you imagine what would have happened if Kevin et al had those two years to put there event together? I would project that the Montreal event would never have happened. Of course, in this huge example of the dog biting the hand that feeds it, Montreal ultimately lead itself and those that jumped on that train - down a route to failure.
Sydplayer, the reason why these people are concerned is that it is possible that the events that you take for granted could disappear if incompetence and searches for vain glory is pursued at the expense of a socail movement that the Gay Games truly is and needs to be until the world has truly changed. Events such as this are not so simple to put together and it takes the likes of Kevin Boyer to do a ton of work - all for free. Kate is another person that has put in an incredible number of hours to ensure that safe spaces and events exist for our community around the world. They have earned the right to speak. I hope that you are reading this thread as you actually want to learn more about the process and not to simply tell people to stop talking.
I can only hope that the strategies used by the group that call themselves GLISA will continue to be shown to be a facade in the same way they were exposed in Montreal.
Ken
While I don't want to suggest that SydPlayer has a point - he does in regards to his reflections on the way the world is and the amount of interest that an awful lot of people have in regards to making decisions.
First off though it is at least a bit ironic that his post attacks numerous people and then begs everyone to not turn this thread into a schism thread.
On a surface level, I can agree with him/her that it appears a lot of people do not look into the background of the groups running the events. On closer review it is clear that the Montreal folks based their entire marketing approach on that belief. If you believe that achieving 50% of your projections is a success, then you would think the folks in Montreal got it right. I am glad to say that the louder group of participants - the party gang were fooled but ultimately not the target market. I am also happy to say that Chicago was clearly able to target the audience better in a shorter period of time. Can you imagine what would have happened if Kevin et al had those two years to put there event together? I would project that the Montreal event would never have happened. Of course, in this huge example of the dog biting the hand that feeds it, Montreal ultimately lead itself and those that jumped on that train - down a route to failure.
Sydplayer, the reason why these people are concerned is that it is possible that the events that you take for granted could disappear if incompetence and searches for vain glory is pursued at the expense of a socail movement that the Gay Games truly is and needs to be until the world has truly changed. Events such as this are not so simple to put together and it takes the likes of Kevin Boyer to do a ton of work - all for free. Kate is another person that has put in an incredible number of hours to ensure that safe spaces and events exist for our community around the world. They have earned the right to speak. I hope that you are reading this thread as you actually want to learn more about the process and not to simply tell people to stop talking.
I can only hope that the strategies used by the group that call themselves GLISA will continue to be shown to be a facade in the same way they were exposed in Montreal.
Ken
Hey Ken, CHIathlete and TRL - like you I have no idea who this SYDPLAYER is - but he (or she) did call me 'sweetie' - which I think is the nicest thing anybody has said about me on this board - so I like him (or her). ;-)
Pat
Pat
Pat, At least you've been posting on the board with some integrity and perspective. Syd.....seems he/she just popped in from nowhere, and with no understanding of the movement within Gay sport.
By sweetness!
TRL
GGII, III, IV, VI.....& Cologne.
By sweetness!
TRL
GGII, III, IV, VI.....& Cologne.
I have some practical advice for our friend SydPlayer:
The Team Sydney Annual General meeting is on 22 September 2007. 6 director positions are up for grabs. I look forward to seeing your nomination for one of those positions. It seems you have a very different perspective to everybody else and rather than stifle it, I'd like to see you to provide a contribution to G&L Sports in your part of the world. Check the Team Sydney website if you want to understand the process for nominations.
Oh, and before I leave, some comment on the "propaganda". I didn't write, I wasn't asked for an opinion, it was basically removed off this board by the journalist in question. Since it was a direct quote from this particular discussion, I thought I would post it. In my eyes, I call that knowledge sharing, not propaganda. Just because I happen to agree with much of what the journalist has said is irrelevant.
I won't bother with trying to justify it. It is not worth it. My actions in the G&L Sporting community, both Australia and worldwide, over the past 12 months speak for themselves. And the next 12 months will be even better. The train is leaving Sydplayer, get on board.
And as my friend Sydplayer has said we need to comment on Copenhagen, all I would say is that they have announced a very aggressive sports programme. My comment I made before still stands. I am not convinced that many Australians will go to both Copenhagen and Cologne, so somebody better be ready for a lack of numbers.
And finally, if I could clarify a point in Sydplayer's post where he wonders if Kevin Boyer is on the FGG. Kevin is neither a board member nor a member of the assembly of the FGG so has no official vote in that body. Kevin is on the Communications Committee where he can bring his expertise to bear. A quick look at the FGG website would have confirmed this.
As to your comments about Kate Rowe, leave them to yourself "honey". When you have have done 1/10th of what Kate has done for G&L sport, then I might want to listen. I can only aspire to do some of the things Kate has done.
The Team Sydney Annual General meeting is on 22 September 2007. 6 director positions are up for grabs. I look forward to seeing your nomination for one of those positions. It seems you have a very different perspective to everybody else and rather than stifle it, I'd like to see you to provide a contribution to G&L Sports in your part of the world. Check the Team Sydney website if you want to understand the process for nominations.
Oh, and before I leave, some comment on the "propaganda". I didn't write, I wasn't asked for an opinion, it was basically removed off this board by the journalist in question. Since it was a direct quote from this particular discussion, I thought I would post it. In my eyes, I call that knowledge sharing, not propaganda. Just because I happen to agree with much of what the journalist has said is irrelevant.
I won't bother with trying to justify it. It is not worth it. My actions in the G&L Sporting community, both Australia and worldwide, over the past 12 months speak for themselves. And the next 12 months will be even better. The train is leaving Sydplayer, get on board.
And as my friend Sydplayer has said we need to comment on Copenhagen, all I would say is that they have announced a very aggressive sports programme. My comment I made before still stands. I am not convinced that many Australians will go to both Copenhagen and Cologne, so somebody better be ready for a lack of numbers.
And finally, if I could clarify a point in Sydplayer's post where he wonders if Kevin Boyer is on the FGG. Kevin is neither a board member nor a member of the assembly of the FGG so has no official vote in that body. Kevin is on the Communications Committee where he can bring his expertise to bear. A quick look at the FGG website would have confirmed this.
As to your comments about Kate Rowe, leave them to yourself "honey". When you have have done 1/10th of what Kate has done for G&L sport, then I might want to listen. I can only aspire to do some of the things Kate has done.
Hey Pat,
That is another example of honey and vinegar right? I know this is off topic, but isn't calling people sweetie supposed to have been left behind in the 80's? Maybe it is now a retro thing to do. I am really dreading the day that "Girlfriend" comes back into vogue.
On another note, I am actually going to be coming back through Toronto and then Montreal in just a couple of weeks. I hear that even though I may have suggested otherwise, the buildings are still standing in both cities, is that correct?
Ken
That is another example of honey and vinegar right? I know this is off topic, but isn't calling people sweetie supposed to have been left behind in the 80's? Maybe it is now a retro thing to do. I am really dreading the day that "Girlfriend" comes back into vogue.
On another note, I am actually going to be coming back through Toronto and then Montreal in just a couple of weeks. I hear that even though I may have suggested otherwise, the buildings are still standing in both cities, is that correct?
Ken
Hey Ken:
My mom sometimes calls me sweetie - and I hope she means it in a nice way - so if somebody else wants to use that terms towards me - the optimist in me will take it as a compliment. :-)
And yes - the buildings are still standing in Toronto and Montreal - but we'll see if the new National Soccer Stadium - which is a GREAT place to watch a soccer game from - survives another couple of games tomorrow - with those crazy South American fans in attendance. Who would have thought it would end up being the players from one of the teams that actually would get into a post game brawl with our police and not the fans. Should be interesting to see how the Chilean players and their fans react in the bronze medal game tomorrow and here is hoping the Czechs beat the Argentina team in the final game that takes place immediately following the bronze medal game. I was so fed up with all the acting and diving of the Argentina players the other night in the semi-final - that I hope that display of very poor sportsmanship is not rewarded with the U 20 World Cup championship.
And yes the above post should not be in this Copenhagen board - so before I am accused of a completely off topic post - the weather forecast for the next 10 days in Copenhagen is for a mix of 3-4 days of light rain with the other days partly cloudy with daytime highs in the 18 - 20C range (64 - 68F) and night time lows in the 13 - 14C (55 - 58F) range. Very comfortable for most outdoor sport activities for those of you wondering what the weather might be like at this time of year in 2009 for the Outgames.
My mom sometimes calls me sweetie - and I hope she means it in a nice way - so if somebody else wants to use that terms towards me - the optimist in me will take it as a compliment. :-)
And yes - the buildings are still standing in Toronto and Montreal - but we'll see if the new National Soccer Stadium - which is a GREAT place to watch a soccer game from - survives another couple of games tomorrow - with those crazy South American fans in attendance. Who would have thought it would end up being the players from one of the teams that actually would get into a post game brawl with our police and not the fans. Should be interesting to see how the Chilean players and their fans react in the bronze medal game tomorrow and here is hoping the Czechs beat the Argentina team in the final game that takes place immediately following the bronze medal game. I was so fed up with all the acting and diving of the Argentina players the other night in the semi-final - that I hope that display of very poor sportsmanship is not rewarded with the U 20 World Cup championship.
And yes the above post should not be in this Copenhagen board - so before I am accused of a completely off topic post - the weather forecast for the next 10 days in Copenhagen is for a mix of 3-4 days of light rain with the other days partly cloudy with daytime highs in the 18 - 20C range (64 - 68F) and night time lows in the 13 - 14C (55 - 58F) range. Very comfortable for most outdoor sport activities for those of you wondering what the weather might be like at this time of year in 2009 for the Outgames.
If my mum called me sweetie, I think I would never chat to her again 
.
As to Copenhagen - it is the capital of Denmark and there is one very chic aussie princess over there married to one very cute Scandavian prince
.As to Copenhagen - it is the capital of Denmark and there is one very chic aussie princess over there married to one very cute Scandavian prince
Hey,
I think this is the site to place this amusing little tidbit.
I just got a couple of e-mails from GLISA-NA in spite of the fact that I have never given them or GLISA my e-mail or asked them to send me anything. I get it on both of my e-mail accounts for some reason. I had one e-mail address I used when I was working with the FGG and then a gneral one for everything else. Over time they have merged.
I decided that I did not want to receive any of their future e-mails as their definition of the word success is so vastly different from mine. Greg Laroque referred to Calgary as another success - which implied they have had another success and since Montreal was their only other event - well you get the idea.
I did the unsubscribe thing and this is what popped up -
Please confirm that you would like to unsubscribe.
Email Address To Unsubscribe:
xxxxx@shaw.ca
Select Group/s To Unsubscribe From:
All Groups
GG Montreal 1 to 2999
So basically I had to decide if I would unsubscribe from all choices or just the GG Montreal choices. Don;t they know Montreal was not a GG?
Still smiling knowingly at their silliness and lack of diligence.
Ken
I think this is the site to place this amusing little tidbit.
I just got a couple of e-mails from GLISA-NA in spite of the fact that I have never given them or GLISA my e-mail or asked them to send me anything. I get it on both of my e-mail accounts for some reason. I had one e-mail address I used when I was working with the FGG and then a gneral one for everything else. Over time they have merged.
I decided that I did not want to receive any of their future e-mails as their definition of the word success is so vastly different from mine. Greg Laroque referred to Calgary as another success - which implied they have had another success and since Montreal was their only other event - well you get the idea.
I did the unsubscribe thing and this is what popped up -
Please confirm that you would like to unsubscribe.
Email Address To Unsubscribe:
xxxxx@shaw.ca
Select Group/s To Unsubscribe From:
All Groups
GG Montreal 1 to 2999
So basically I had to decide if I would unsubscribe from all choices or just the GG Montreal choices. Don;t they know Montreal was not a GG?
Still smiling knowingly at their silliness and lack of diligence.
Ken
Hey Ken:
I'm just back home after a few days in your lovely city - and it truly is spectacular in Vancouver when the weather is as nice as it was for Pride this past weekend. And oh my the finale of the fireworks competition with that spectacular display on Saturday night with that breathtaking backdrop of English Bay - simply stunning! I can now see why so many thousands of people camped out most of the day to get the front row seats along the bay and can understand why they draw over 300,000 people to the water front. I was out there manning a table at the Pride marketplace with our partners Qantas and Tourism Australia (giving away a trip to Sydney Mardi Gras - sending people your way Kate and Jbal!) We had a couple of thousand people pass by our booth and about 700 or so actually took the time to stop and chat and fill out one of the ballots for the trip.
Now - what does this have to do with the topic of Copenhagen I'm sure some are asking. Well I was pleasantly surprised by how many people asked me or my Tourism Australian counterpart about the Outgames in either Melbourne next year or Copenhagen in 2009. We must have had about 10 groups of people asking me about Copenhagen and wondering if and when we would be offering packages and asking specific questions about how much air and hotel would likely cost. Information I did not have since I'm not sure we will even be doing packages to that event yet. I hope so - but it is not my decision. The fact there was some interest though in Copenhagen did not really surprise me since so many people from Vancouver had been in Montreal and would have tentatively made plans to aim for Copenhagen in 2009. We had similar queries about Copenhagen in Toronto when working our Pride table there a few weeks ago.
What did surprise me somewhat is how often we were asked if we were offereing packages to the Melbourne 2008 Asia Pacific Regional Outgames. My Tourism Australian colleague and Qantas sales rep both were asking me for more information on the event because of how often they got asked about it. I was surprised that there were even that many people who knew about the event - since it is not really being aimed at this market at all.
And the last sort of Outgames related news out of my weekend in Vancouver was the fact that obviously people up here are not seemingly interested in being too negative about the financial outcome in Montreal - considering there leading your parade as one of the Grand Marshalls - being cheered loudly - was the one and only Mark Tewksbury.
It was a fun weekend in your beautiful city Ken!
Pat
I'm just back home after a few days in your lovely city - and it truly is spectacular in Vancouver when the weather is as nice as it was for Pride this past weekend. And oh my the finale of the fireworks competition with that spectacular display on Saturday night with that breathtaking backdrop of English Bay - simply stunning! I can now see why so many thousands of people camped out most of the day to get the front row seats along the bay and can understand why they draw over 300,000 people to the water front. I was out there manning a table at the Pride marketplace with our partners Qantas and Tourism Australia (giving away a trip to Sydney Mardi Gras - sending people your way Kate and Jbal!) We had a couple of thousand people pass by our booth and about 700 or so actually took the time to stop and chat and fill out one of the ballots for the trip.
Now - what does this have to do with the topic of Copenhagen I'm sure some are asking. Well I was pleasantly surprised by how many people asked me or my Tourism Australian counterpart about the Outgames in either Melbourne next year or Copenhagen in 2009. We must have had about 10 groups of people asking me about Copenhagen and wondering if and when we would be offering packages and asking specific questions about how much air and hotel would likely cost. Information I did not have since I'm not sure we will even be doing packages to that event yet. I hope so - but it is not my decision. The fact there was some interest though in Copenhagen did not really surprise me since so many people from Vancouver had been in Montreal and would have tentatively made plans to aim for Copenhagen in 2009. We had similar queries about Copenhagen in Toronto when working our Pride table there a few weeks ago.
What did surprise me somewhat is how often we were asked if we were offereing packages to the Melbourne 2008 Asia Pacific Regional Outgames. My Tourism Australian colleague and Qantas sales rep both were asking me for more information on the event because of how often they got asked about it. I was surprised that there were even that many people who knew about the event - since it is not really being aimed at this market at all.
And the last sort of Outgames related news out of my weekend in Vancouver was the fact that obviously people up here are not seemingly interested in being too negative about the financial outcome in Montreal - considering there leading your parade as one of the Grand Marshalls - being cheered loudly - was the one and only Mark Tewksbury.
It was a fun weekend in your beautiful city Ken!
Pat
Jeez, some of my co-workers get all the luck. I'm just stuck getting cheap 1st class airfares! Next time I chat with the co-presidents of MOI, I'll mention Qantas' interest. I know that the Yield Analysts love to know about this sort of thing so they can shove on extra flights and get heaps more money for the airline. MOI have not actually announced a travel partner, official airline etc. There might be something coming but not yet. Who knows, with all the changes in the aviation market down here, they might get one of the new players to grab the chance, and with Virgin just about ready to fly the Pacific, who knows. They might be holding out for a goos deal.
Once every couple of months I check the Copenhagen 2009 website to see what the latest news is. This morning great news for hockey players as hockey has been added. And yes Jbal I do mean ice hockey but to a Canadian that would be like saying grass rugby. ;-)
All the news on sports, registration, human rights conference can be found at www.copenhagen2009.org. And you can get interesting tidbits on the Q&A page at http://www.copenhagen2009.org/index.php?vis=QA
Such as..
Can I get by with English ?
Nearly all Danes speak English fluently. So you don't need to learn Danish. But hej hej (hi hi) means hello and good-bye. That's always good to know.
or
How far is it to Sweden ?
Malmö, Sweden is just a little more than a half an hour from the center of Copenhagen by train. Trains run regularly from Copenhagen Central Station 24 hours a day. It's great day trip or over night stay.
Edited to add - OK feeling a bit psychic today. I did the above entry from home this morning and lo and behold what ends up waiting for me in my inbox at work - but a newsletter from Copenhagen 2009. Interesting OutCities Project planned as part of the conference. Here is a link to the newsletter.
http://link.etyper.com/r/webversion.asp?TId=25839743087
All the news on sports, registration, human rights conference can be found at www.copenhagen2009.org. And you can get interesting tidbits on the Q&A page at http://www.copenhagen2009.org/index.php?vis=QA
Such as..
Can I get by with English ?
Nearly all Danes speak English fluently. So you don't need to learn Danish. But hej hej (hi hi) means hello and good-bye. That's always good to know.
or
How far is it to Sweden ?
Malmö, Sweden is just a little more than a half an hour from the center of Copenhagen by train. Trains run regularly from Copenhagen Central Station 24 hours a day. It's great day trip or over night stay.
Edited to add - OK feeling a bit psychic today. I did the above entry from home this morning and lo and behold what ends up waiting for me in my inbox at work - but a newsletter from Copenhagen 2009. Interesting OutCities Project planned as part of the conference. Here is a link to the newsletter.
http://link.etyper.com/r/webversion.asp?TId=25839743087
Nice of them to mention 5 FGG ambassadors on their website. And use photos from previous gay games. Who knows, they might even be able to make some for themselves in 2009.
Latest newsletter from our friends in Copenhagen for World Outgames 2009.
http://link.etyper.com/r/webversion.asp?TId=26935348550
A few of us in the office here have been going through the various links on the newsletter and there are some great videos and blog entries in the 'My Space' link on the newsletter. As somebody who works in travel and loves to travel - I can't wait to see Copenhagen - having never been there before. It looks like a beautiful city!
Probably the biggest piece of news is that registration fees have been set at 1500DKK for sports registrations, 1000DKK for students 26 or under with valid ID. That works out to approximately 200.00 Euros/$290.00 or 135.00Euros/$193.00 for students. Early registration starts in April. The registration fee includes participation in your chosen program discipline, the opening and closing ceremonies, a welcome bag, one free social event, special discounts at parties and social events, discounts for participation in extra program disciplines, access to hosted housing and dinners, and free access to selected sports events. Friends, family members and other non-registered guests will be able to purchase a visitors pass for DKK 450 ($85.00) allowing access to select sporting and cultural events.
Other highlights:
- Recognizing the importance of the leather culture as an integral part of the LGBT community, the World Outgames 2009 will include a festival of activities especially for the leather/fetish crowd. The Outgames leather progam is being organized in cooperation with Scandinavian Leather Men (SLM) Copenhagen, Scandinavia’s largest leather club.
- Copenhagen will be transformed into a choral paradise as LGBT choirs from around the world gather to compete and entertain as part of the World Outgames 2009 Choir Festival program. In addition to scheduled competitions, participating choirs will have the opportunity to perform at central squares in Copenhagen as well as at the different sports venues. There will also be an option to perform at social institutions such as hospitals and senior citizens homes. (Love that last part - what a great idea!)
- The World Outgames is planning a network meeting for partners, participants, volunteers and volunteers during the weekend of 2-4 May 2008. The meeting will coincide with several local, national and international LGBT events already scheduled to occur in Copenhagen. They include the European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation board meeting, the International Lesbian and Gay Association Board meeting, Pan Basketball workshop and Women’s sports day.
- New York - The STONEWALL Veterans Association (S.V.A.) has agreed to lend their support to World Outgames 2009 and acknowledge the international LGBT sporting, cultural and human rights event as an official celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion.
- Copenhagen - Athletes and others with HIV planning to participate at the World Outgames 2009 need not worry about seeking special exemptions or permission for travel into Denmark. HIV+ visitors are granted entry into Denmark on the same basis as all others.
And most important of all for all us jocks....
- Gold, silver and bronze medals in 38 different sporting events will be up for grabs during the World Outgames in Copenhagen from 25 July to 2 August 2009. Note the Aquatic sports will be the 2009 IGLA championships.
Aerobics, Athletics (100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 100m hurdles women, 110m hurdles men, 400m hurdles, 3000m steeple, 5 km race walk, Pole vault, Long jump, High jump, Triple jump, Discus throw, Shot put, Javelin throw, 4 x 100 m, 4 x 400 m, Heptathlon women, Decathlon men, Relay 1000 m medley mixed - 2 men, 2 women), Badminton, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Billiards, Bowling, Bridge, Canoe and Kayak, Climbing, Country Western, Curling (great addition!), Cycling, Dance, Diving, Field Hockey, Figure skating, Floorball, Golf, Ice hockey -a.k.a. real hockey - JBAL ;-) , Full Marathon, Half marathon, 10 km race, 5 km race, Martial Arts, Roller racing, Rowing, Rugby, Shooting, Soccer, Softball, Squash, Swimming (various disciplines), Synchronized swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball, Water polo
Wrestling
There are four of us in my office making our plans to attend already - I can't wait!
http://link.etyper.com/r/webversion.asp?TId=26935348550
A few of us in the office here have been going through the various links on the newsletter and there are some great videos and blog entries in the 'My Space' link on the newsletter. As somebody who works in travel and loves to travel - I can't wait to see Copenhagen - having never been there before. It looks like a beautiful city!
Probably the biggest piece of news is that registration fees have been set at 1500DKK for sports registrations, 1000DKK for students 26 or under with valid ID. That works out to approximately 200.00 Euros/$290.00 or 135.00Euros/$193.00 for students. Early registration starts in April. The registration fee includes participation in your chosen program discipline, the opening and closing ceremonies, a welcome bag, one free social event, special discounts at parties and social events, discounts for participation in extra program disciplines, access to hosted housing and dinners, and free access to selected sports events. Friends, family members and other non-registered guests will be able to purchase a visitors pass for DKK 450 ($85.00) allowing access to select sporting and cultural events.
Other highlights:
- Recognizing the importance of the leather culture as an integral part of the LGBT community, the World Outgames 2009 will include a festival of activities especially for the leather/fetish crowd. The Outgames leather progam is being organized in cooperation with Scandinavian Leather Men (SLM) Copenhagen, Scandinavia’s largest leather club.
- Copenhagen will be transformed into a choral paradise as LGBT choirs from around the world gather to compete and entertain as part of the World Outgames 2009 Choir Festival program. In addition to scheduled competitions, participating choirs will have the opportunity to perform at central squares in Copenhagen as well as at the different sports venues. There will also be an option to perform at social institutions such as hospitals and senior citizens homes. (Love that last part - what a great idea!)
- The World Outgames is planning a network meeting for partners, participants, volunteers and volunteers during the weekend of 2-4 May 2008. The meeting will coincide with several local, national and international LGBT events already scheduled to occur in Copenhagen. They include the European Gay and Lesbian Sports Federation board meeting, the International Lesbian and Gay Association Board meeting, Pan Basketball workshop and Women’s sports day.
- New York - The STONEWALL Veterans Association (S.V.A.) has agreed to lend their support to World Outgames 2009 and acknowledge the international LGBT sporting, cultural and human rights event as an official celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Stonewall Rebellion.
- Copenhagen - Athletes and others with HIV planning to participate at the World Outgames 2009 need not worry about seeking special exemptions or permission for travel into Denmark. HIV+ visitors are granted entry into Denmark on the same basis as all others.
And most important of all for all us jocks....
- Gold, silver and bronze medals in 38 different sporting events will be up for grabs during the World Outgames in Copenhagen from 25 July to 2 August 2009. Note the Aquatic sports will be the 2009 IGLA championships.
Aerobics, Athletics (100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m, 5000m, 100m hurdles women, 110m hurdles men, 400m hurdles, 3000m steeple, 5 km race walk, Pole vault, Long jump, High jump, Triple jump, Discus throw, Shot put, Javelin throw, 4 x 100 m, 4 x 400 m, Heptathlon women, Decathlon men, Relay 1000 m medley mixed - 2 men, 2 women), Badminton, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Billiards, Bowling, Bridge, Canoe and Kayak, Climbing, Country Western, Curling (great addition!), Cycling, Dance, Diving, Field Hockey, Figure skating, Floorball, Golf, Ice hockey -a.k.a. real hockey - JBAL ;-) , Full Marathon, Half marathon, 10 km race, 5 km race, Martial Arts, Roller racing, Rowing, Rugby, Shooting, Soccer, Softball, Squash, Swimming (various disciplines), Synchronized swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball, Water polo
Wrestling
There are four of us in my office making our plans to attend already - I can't wait!
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