Outgames registrations continue to climb
Sydney’s gay and lesbian sporting enthusiasts turned out in force on Sunday to register for next year’s Outgames in Melbourne.
Organisers said the registration event, held at the Brighton Bar, was well attended by members from a broad range of Sydney sporting organisations.
“The Asia Pacific Outgames is a perfect opportunity for a person in Sydney to give sport a fresh look,” Outgames co-president Peter Sagar said.
“You don’t have to be a member of a gay club to come and play. Anyone and everyone is welcome.
“Melbourne’s world-class sporting venues such as the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, Melbourne Park and State Netball and Hockey Centre will be buzzing with gay and lesbian athletes, so what an opportunity to play at these venues!
“I’ve decided to take up swimming because I’m looking forward to swimming at the Aquatic Centre that hosted the Commonwealth Games. I hadn’t thought of trying to swim before but thought, wow, what an opportunity to be there and swim my heart out.
“I encourage you all to check out the program and give it a go. I also want to remind people that Melbourne will assist in forming composite teams for individuals who want to play a team sport but don’t have a team of their own.”
Sagar said organisers were satisfied with how the momentum and registrations were going, but said people should not leave registration and travel arrangements to the last minute.
If you register before 10 October, you will go into the draw to win a travel voucher from STA Travel.
Sagar said to date registrations had been received from the United States, New Zealand and throughout Australia.
The Outgames team will be back in town at Team Sydney’s Sport Day Out on 7 October, which Sagar said would be a good opportunity for people to check out different sports and to register for the Outgames.
He said Outgames was also considering staging a special party that Sunday night as well.
The 2008 Melbourne Outgames will be held 30 January-3 February. Details: www.melbourneoutgames.org
