London announces bid to host tenth gay games in 2018
London is bidding to host the tenth Gay Games in 2018. The Games, recently held in Cologne, are one of the largest sporting and cultural events in the world.
The event is not only open to LGBT participants – all adults are free to enter, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, health status or ability. The bid committee recently met with officials in Cologne and say they are feeling “very encouraged”.
Coordinator of the bid, Jonathan Harbourne, is the founder of the London Raiders softball team and member of the LGBT Sports Network. In a press release he wrote: “Cologne was so inspiring, they put on an amazing Games. Many Brits came home with medals and the LGBT Sports Network is looking forward to putting on a party to welcome home all the athletes.
“We’ve come back fired-up to bring the Games to London – taking it to the next level. London is in such a strong position to host the games in 2018. The 2012 Olympics will provide the best facilities in the world . . . this is going to be great for LGBT people, great for sport, and great for London.”
The London 2018 Gay Games Bid committee are seeking volunteers to join their team, at all levels, to produce a winning bid. A public meeting is planned for January 2011 to bring together all potentially interested parties.
The website launches at the end of next month.
