Outgames registrations surge

Registrations for the 1st Asia Pacific Outgames in Melbourne later this month has surged past 1,000, organisers say.

The number exceeds registrations for the 1st North American Outgames staged in Canada last year.

While a majority of Melbourne Outgames entrants are from Australia, co-president Peter Sagar said there was also a significant number of people travelling to Melbourne from countries such as India, the Philippines, Singapore, Europe, Canada and America.

“This is extremely exciting news for all the volunteers working tirelessly behind the scenes making these Games happen and it sends out a very strong message to those who still have not registered to get in fast before it’s too late,” Sagar said.

Co-president Loraine Little said the strong number of competitors had elevated organiser hopes of an even stronger number of spectators.

“I can’t wait to be one of the tens of thousands that will be participating in the Outgames, enjoying the multitude of cultural events as part of Midsumma and marching at Pride March,” Little said.

“I urge you all to encourage your partners, friends and families to purchase an Outgames spectator pass to ensure they are part of this amazing celebration of our community.”

The Outgames spectator pass costs $20 and can be purchased online from the Outgames website.

The pass – developed to provide access and benefits to your partner, friends and family – offers a range of advantages throughout  the Outgames, including priority access to purchase tickets to the opening celebration and free access and priority seating to many of the sporting activities.

The pass also benefits those taking part in Melbourne’s Midsumma Festival, including special ticket prices to performances, events, previews and exhibitions and VIP access to special events.

The 1st Asia Pacific Outgames will showcase a number of sports from tennis to tenpin bowling.

For more details on the Melbourne Outgames visit www.melbourneoutgames.org.