Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Our blog has MOVED!

Hi Everyone!

We want to thank all of you for following our blog the last couple of years. We want to let you know that going forward you may read our blog at www.competemag.com.
Click on the "COMMUNITY" tab and scroll to the bottom of the page to see our blog postings. Feel free to join our community, as well!

Monday, August 9, 2010

Alexander proud of his Gay Games Victory


Former bodybuilding champion, Lucas Alexander, has triumphed at the Gay Games in Cologne to bring home the Gold Medal for Great Britain.



Competing in the Senior category (for ages 21-39) Alexander outclassed all the other competitors with his stunning physique.



Lucas is no stranger to competitive bodybuilding and has previously won titles at


Won 1995 Heavyweight British Bodybuilding Championship, then immediately turned professional
Won Under 21 British Bodybuilding Championship (1993),runner up Under 21 European Bodybuilding Championship (1993) and won Under 18 British Bodybuilding Championship (1990)





On accepting his gold medal Lucas said “I was very proud to represent my country at this international event and I am delighted I could win this title for Britain.”



He also congratulated the other competitors; “I was up against some top athletes who really caused me to up my game in order to take the top title. They really were a great bunch of guys and the atmosphere was friendly and collegiate, even though there was a world title at stake.”



Alexander has been in preparation for this event for several months. “This is the hardest I have ever worked for a competition. Preparing for a major event is always hard but coming back to it after a long break has meant I needed to put in extra effort all along the way.”



Next Lucas plans to compete in European Championships but first he has scheduled himself a short break. “I need to eat normally for a while and treat myself to all those things I had to cut out in order to get excellent muscle definition. The first thing I am going to do as soon as I get home is have a strawberry cup cake.”



About Lucas Alexander.

Alexander, 37, is a London born muscle, fitness and nutrition coach who provides personal training advice to a range of clients including athletes, celebrities, executives and anyone who wants to get great muscle definition. He runs an online training practice through is website www.lucasalexander.net.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Formal Closing Ceremony at the Tanzbrunnen

With a great party the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010 will end on Saturday, Aug, 7. At the Tanzbrunnen in Deutz the participants and spectators can expect a diverse show program with fire artists and high class cheerleaders from the US, who already provided a great show at the Neumarkt. The great choir, who sang already at the opening ceremony, will be performing at the closing ceremony as well. A DJ will be playing trendy music.

The closing ceremony will also have ceremonial moments. The Gay Games Flame will be extinguished after one week. Following, the flag of the Federation of Gay Games (FGG) will be handed over to the team from Cleveland, where the next Gay Games will take place. Mayor of Cologne, Elfi Scho-Antwerpes will thank the 10.000 participants in the name of Cologne.

Afterwards samba drummers will turn up the heat for the visitors. The official Gay Games hymn “Facing the miracle” will be sung again. For many participants the Gay Games mean a week of freedom as in many countries homosexuality cannot be lived openly. The sense of community belongs to the spirit of the Gay Games. At the closing ceremony the participants from 70 nations should feel this atmosphere again.

Tickets for the closing ceremony are available at www.games-cologne.com or at the Gay Games Shop at the Neumarkt Mall. Remaining tickets will be sold at the evening box office. Tickets are at 20 Euros (18 Euros with the IKEA Family card)

The closing ceremony of the Gay Games
Date : Saturday, Aug, 7

Start: 7 pm

Location: Tanzbrunnen, Koeln-Deutz

Ticket presale : www.games-cologne.com

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Gay Games® VIII Set to Open in Germany This Saturday 31 July

2200 Americans are among 9500 participating athletes from 65 Countries



Cologne, Germany – The 8th international Gay Games® will get underway in Cologne, Germany, this Saturday with a lavish Opening Ceremony at RheinEnergie Stadium, the 40,000-seat home stadium of the city’s football club. The 2010 Gay Games will be the continent’s largest sports & cultural festival since the Gay Games were last in Amsterdam in 1998. Many of the 9500 athletes and artists, including 2200 Americans, are already enroute to Germany’s “gay capital” on the Rhine River. They will participate in 34 different sports and 5 cultural events from 31 July to 7 August when the Gay Games close. Full details are available at http://www.games-cologne.com/



Opening Ceremony

The Gay Games Opening Ceremony will feature the traditional parade of athletes and will be officially opened by openly gay German Vice Chancellor Dr. Guido Westerwelle. Performers include international pop sensation and Swedish “Idol” winner Agnes and American diva Taylor Dayne performing the brand new Gay Games anthem, “Facing a Miracle.” Information about television broadcasts and live web-streaming will be announced at www.games-cologne.com in coming days.



History

Cologne marks the 8th quadrennial Gay Games. First held in 1982 in San Francisco, the Gay Games have become one of the world’s largest sporting events, routinely drawing more athletes than the Olympics. Previous host cities have included San Francisco (1982, 1986), Vancouver (1990), New York (1994), Amsterdam (1998), Sydney (2002), and Chicago (2006). In four years, Gay Games IX will take place in Cleveland/Akron in 2014.



While the 9500 participating athletes are fewer than participated in Chicago in 2006 (11,700), the Cologne organizers are ecstatic at the numbers. “We planned for as few as 8,000 participants given the worldwide economic downturn,” said Annette Wachter, CEO of Games Cologne. “We’ve exceeded our projections and can’t wait to welcome everyone to Cologne.” The 9,500 participants do not include another almost 2,000 locals who will be participating in the half-marathon. Each Gay Games injects $50 to $80 million into the local economy with 10 years of residual tourism impact.



The Gay Games were founded by American Olympic decathlete Dr. Tom Waddell and are based upon the principles of Inclusion, Participation and Personal Best™. The Gay Games are open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or ability. Many of the competitions are run similarly to international Master’s competitions with divisions established for age and gender. Team sports have divisions based upon ability allowing competitive as well as recreational athletes to participate. Cultural events are also open to all including band, chorus and cheer teams.



Statistics from the 2010 Gay Games

Countries with more than 30 participants: Germany (2955), United States (2219), United Kingdom (841), Netherlands (658), France (524), Australia (363) Switzerland (248), Canada (196), Belgium (161), Denmark (147), Italy (140), Spain (105), Austria (95), Ireland (89), Norway (62), Hungary (52), New Zealand (52), Czech Republic (52), Sweden (49), Russian Federation (49), Finland (45), South Africa (39), and Croatia (30).



Other countries with at least one participant include: Angola, Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, Chile, China, Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Ghana, Greece, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kenya, Latvia, Liberia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Montenegro, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay.



Worldwide, the 10 cities with the largest number of participants include (in order) Cologne, London, Berlin, Paris, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Munich, Hamburg, New York and Chicago.



Soccer is the most popular sport 1055 participating athletes. Other top sports include Swimming (896), Volleyball (847), Tennis (617), Marathon/Half (600 + 2000 locals), Road Races/5K & 10K (545), Dancesport (512), Track & Field (455), Badminton (414) and Basketball.



Other sporting & cultural events being offered include: Band Festival, Beach Volleyball, Bodybuilding (Physique), Bowling, Bridge, Cheerleading, Chess, Choir Festival, Cycling, Diving, Field Hockey, Figure Skating, Golf, Handball, Ice Hockey, Inline Speed Skating, Martial Arts, Pool-Billiard, Powerlifting, Sailing, Softball, Sport Climbing, Sport Shooting, Squash, Synchronised Swimming, Table Tennis, Triathlon, Triathlon Team, Visual Arts, Water Polo, and Wrestling.

FORD IS OFFICIAL PARTNER OF THE GAY GAMES VIII


Cologne, July, 28 2010 – On Monday this week July, 26, 6 vehicles, provided by Ford for the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010, were handed over to the drivers. This is only one component of the official partnership between the Ford factory Cologne and the organizers of the Gay Games.

Ford overall provides 65 employees within the community-involvement-initiative to support the Games at 157 shifts. 6 vehicles are provided also, four Transits, a Focus as well as a Mondeo which will be used for transportation of athletes and volunteers. Furthermore, the parking lot at the Fuehlinger See, owned by Ford will be open to the public during the races on the lake.

At the Gay Games, taking place every 4 years, nearly 10.000 participants from over 70 nations have registered. 35 sports, 5 cultural events are on the program and numerous events and parties are on the supporting program.
According to the motto “Be part of it!” “Diversity” base of Ford, naturally everybody can participate at the Games from July, 31 till Aug, 7, no matter the sexual identity.
The Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010 will be declared formally open with a spectacular show on Saturday, July, 31 2010 at the RheinEnergieStadium. Tickets from 27,50 Euro at www.games-cologne.de.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Two-Day Baby Dragon 180 Ride Roars Into Gear

We received this information this morning from the LA Gay Center. This is a wonderful opportunity to compete in Cycling and raise money for homeless gay youth. Our community sometimes forgets about those of us who aren't old enough to be seen in a bar, so this sheds light on an issue for which there should be more awareness.

Beautiful, Fully Supported Ride from L.A. to Santa Barbara and Back, Sept. 25-26,
Supports L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center’s Life-saving Services

LOS ANGELES, July 27, 2010 –Ready to leave the city behind and enjoy a weekend ride—on a bike—through some of California’s most beautiful countryside? On Saturday, September 25 those ready for a unique and fun get-away will kick their wheels into gear as participants in the second annual Baby Dragon 180 Ride—a fully supported two-day bike ride from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara and back.


Registration, limited to just 150 (experienced and novice) cyclists, is still open for the 180-mile ride that benefits several life-saving programs of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center and is produced by the same team that has made the seven-day AIDS/LifeCycle (ALC) such a success. The beautiful route takes riders on a scenic journey through some of Southern California’s most picturesque beaches, rolling hills, vineyards and orange groves. All meals and accommodations are included in the cost of registration, including a night at the quaint Lemon Tree Inn in Santa Barbara.



“Even if you’ve never pedaled a bike before, I promise you the Baby Dragon 180 Ride is your chance to say YES to a challenge that can and will change your life,” says actor Chad Allen (Saved; Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman). “Come coast down the California shoreline with a pack of like-minded souls dedicated to making the world a better place.”



For those who have considered riding from San Francisco to Los Angeles as participants in AIDS/LifeCycle but don’t feel quite ready for that commitment, the Baby Dragon Ride offers a great taste of the ALC experience and regular training rides help participants prepare—even those who have little or no cycling experience. And a customizable web tools make it simple for each participant to raise the $1,000 minimum that supports the Center’s Mental Health Services, Crystal Meth Recovery Services and programs for LGBT youth.

The event is named in honor of a young Center client (nicknamed “Baby Dragon”) who died two years ago. A group of his friends and family helped create the Baby Dagon Fund, which supports Center services that help LGBT youth and others receive the counseling and care they need to live fulfilling, drug-free lives.



Until July 31, participants can take advantage of a special two-for-one deal on registration by sending e-mail to info@babydragon180ride.org or calling 323-860-7374. For more information about the Baby Dragon 180 Ride, go to www.babydragon180ride.org.

We have GAY GAMES Tickets to give away!

Are you going to be in Cologne for the gay games? Want to get into all ticketed events at the Gay Games? Want be a VIP at the Opening AND Closing Ceremonies?
We have two tickets for anyone who wants them. The first person to email alfonzo@competemag.com with GAY GAMES COLOGNE 2010 in the subject line will win the tickets.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Safe and sound through the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010

The Gay Games VIII and HIV/AIDS relief organizations count on personal encounters – more than 100 honorary prevention co-workers are on active service – Herzenslust / FAIRPLAY and “I KNOW WHAT I AM DOING” are partners of the Gay Games Cologne.

The organizers of Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010 provide an extensive offer for the prevention of HIV and other sexual transmittable diseases for the 10.000 participants and innumerable visitors.
“Our guest shouldn´t take home any unwanted souvenirs” Michael Lohaus accentuates. Therefore the organizers of the Gay Games named an HIV representative, who coordinates and steers the concepts and projects of the single responsible organizations.


Cooperation with HIV/AIDS – relief organizations

More than 100 honorary co-workers of the FAIRPLAY project of Herzenslust (AIDS relief NRW e.V. and Check UP/ AIDS relief Cologne e.V.) and of the “I KNOW WHAT I AM DOING” campaign of the German AIDS relief take care for guests from all over the world. Appropriate to the occasion they are dressed as referees and on the road during competitions, the opening ceremony, in the evening at the parties and in the bars.
“Of course we do distribute condoms, but that´s not all” accentuates the project leader of the FAIRPLAY team Felix Laue. “I KNOW WHAT I AM DOING” and “FAIRPLAY” stand for a responsible and passionate dealing with each other. So that you can enjoy sex without unpleasant consequences, teams offer help in estimating your own conducting towards risk. To be fair to yourself and your sex partner, this is the message.

Information and help

The German HIV/AIDS relief supports the campaign with 50.000 cruising packs (condoms and lube), produces information flyers and prevention TV spots for the Gay Games Cologne. The AIDS relief NRW e.V. provides manpower and other media for the campaigns. Involved are “Herzenslust” groups from all over NRW as well as prevention teams throughout Germany. An important part is the countrywide advice hotline 0049 (0) 180 33 19411 where trained co-workers answer the most important questions regarding HIV and AIDS. Help will be passed on in case of an acute infection with HIV is possible and an immediate PEP (morning-after) therapy might be necessary or in case visitors or participants with HIV have lost their HIV medication. “We cannot offer an all-inclusive free package, but we managed to build information- and help offer for all important areas” says Lohaus.

Solidarity with the affected

Integration and dealing in solidarity is important to the organizers of the Gay Games on all levels. “Be part of it also means that we have to set a sign towards the rights and discrimination of people with HIV in many countries of the world.” With a moment of memories during the opening ceremony commemorates the previous victims of AIDS. At the Rainbow Run and with a commemorative prayer service the AIDS relief Cologne reminds us that people affected by AIDS still need our solidarity as well as social and individual support.

At the link www.games-cologne.de/de/static/köln/gesundheit-hiv all important facts for the guest of the Gay Games are gathered. With it there is information about the general medical care in Cologne and in Germany, questions regarding insurances and the most important emergency call numbers.

More information about the campaigns and partners:
I KNOW WHAT I AM DOING – www.iwwit.de

“FAIRPLAY”/Herzenslust – www.herzenslust.de – www.checkup-koeln.de

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Stay completely informed with the Gay Games-App for the iPhone

We all know the situation: You get to a foreign city and first you have to orient yourself. You wander on the streets with your paper map, ask people for directions and get lost nevertheless. Put a stop to that hassle with our free App for the iPhone. Let it show you the way to your next competition, find your way back to your accommodation and have all the important phone numbers at a glance. With the Gay Games-App we offer you all the important information: what is going on where, who is participating and what is going on online? The answers to all your questions are just a click away.
The App "GayGames2010" is NOW available as a free download in the App-Store!

Friday, June 25, 2010

Taylor Dayne sings the Gay Games Song

We LOVE it!

(copy and paste this link into your browser to hear it): http://www.games-cologne.de/en/gay-games/song)

Soul Diva Taylor Dayne will sing the official song for Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010. The American singer will perform the song “Facing a Miracle” at the opening ceremony on July 31 in the RheinEnergieStadium. Taylor Dayne became well known in the 80s, when she had an international hit with “Tell it to my heart”.

Annette Wachter, manager of the Gay Games Cologne gGmbH, is looking forward to meeting the US star: “We are enthusiastic that an international artist like Taylor Dayne is supporting the sport- and cultural event.” The song was well received from the start. Contracts have been signed with the management of the singer. Taylor Dayne is well known in the USA for her charity engagements, recorded the song, a short time ago in California.

With “Tell it to my Heart”, Taylor Dayne reached number one in the chart shows in Germany in 1987. Also her hits “Prove your love” and “I´ll will always love you” were placed in the charts. In 2008, ten years after her last publishing, she released her new album “Satisfied”. Taylor Dayne is also successful as composer. She wrote the hit “Whatever you want” for Tina Turner.

Photo: (c) Marc Cartwright Photography. Download.

The hymn of the Gay Games originates from a composer team from Sweden and the Netherlands. The song writer Peter Hägeras, Bruce R.F. Smith, Dan Sundquist and Ralph van Manen won the composer competition of the Gay Games Cologne with the song “Facing a miracle”. The Dance song which has the makings of a hit encourages all to fulfill our own dreams. That the song will be performed by an international known artist, makes Peter Hägeras happy: “Being openly gay myself, it means a lot to me to get the possibility to write and produce the song for the Gay Games, by far the biggest event this year. Even more interesting is the possibility to work with Taylor Dayne. I am still fairly young so for me it´s a fantastic feeling to work with an idol of my youth, especially as she still is delivering top performances and scored top rankings at the billboards. For me, the word “Pride” gets a complete new and important meaning.”



Multinational Quartett writes “Facing a miracle”

No big sport event makes it without a theme song. So from the beginning of the planning for the Gay Games there was the desire for a song. Thus an international composer competition began. A team of classified jurors had to select which of the submitted songs would be the official song of the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010. They chose “Facing a miracle” and therefore the composer quartett from Sweden and the Netherlands.

Dan Sundquist, Ralph van Manen, Peter Hägeras and Bruce R.F. Smith were the lucky winners. But these names are also a win for the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010. Each one of them has a high profile music background. Each of these names assures the quality of the song. Dan Sundquist for example is one of the biggest Swedish song writers and music producers. He produced more than 60 albums over the past 3 decades. He won 7 Grammys and 12 Platinum Prices in Sweden. For the Eurovision Song Contest he contributed 2 national winner titles – for Sweden and Norway.

The Dutch - Ralph van Manen and the Dutch-by-choice Bruce R.F. Smith, born in England are spoilt by success. Both are authors of great songs. With the hit “Testify to love” by Ralph van Manen the group “Avalon” reached Platinum status in the USA. From Bruce R.F. Smiths pen originates the Dutch contribution to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2005. His song “Engel van mijn hart” sung by Gerard Joling, won the first place of the Dutch charts and was honored as best song with the Buma Golden Harp Award.

The youngest of the quartet of song writers is Peter Hägeras. But the 28 year old has worked already with numerous artists. Among them Kayo, a Swedish singer, who represented her country in 2002 at the Eurovision Song Contest, with her group Afro-dite. Different casting-show superstars also had a breakthrough due to his help, among them the winner of the Belgian X-Faktor Udo Mechels. The musical talent of Peter Hägeras was discovered very early. Already at the age of 19 he won a well respected Swedish music prize. His signature mark is catchy pop songs, which can be found on his personal album, published in 2007.



From the idea to the song

Clemens Brugger is Austrian and works in Innsbruck. Besides Universal Music Publishing and Popsongs Music Publishing his music publisher CBM is a 50 % co-publisher of the title “Facing a Miracle”. Clemens was given the task to search for the right artist for the title. “There was a list of favorites put together by the team of jurors of the Gay Games Song Contest” he says. “While talking to artists and managers, I got the idea to talk to Taylor Dayne.

Taylor Dayne received the demo of the title and information about the Gay Games. The decision was quickly made, as Clemens Brugger comments. The US singer offered to record the song “Facing a Miracle” at no charge. Even Brugger worked as leading producer without a fee. His company is financing the whole production. The sales returns of the CD are donated to the Gay Games Cologne.

Due to his contacts to US music producer Peter Wolf, Clemens Brugger managed to get his studio in Malibu/California to record the vocal part. Wolf’s studio is one of the leading studios in the music industry. The Austrian is responsible for world hits of Jefferson Starship (We Built this City) and the Commodores (Nightshift). Numerous artists like Patti Labelle, Oleta Adams, Santana, and The Scorpions rely on his know-how. Emil Hellman and Peter Hägeras are producers of the song “Facing a Miracle”. In addition to the radio version there is a Club remix and an orchestra version.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Andy was just kidding

Andy Roddick posted about meeting the Queen of England today on Twitter, but it was just a joke.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Check out what's going on in DC

For more info go to teamdc.org

Night OUT at the Nationals VI - June 22, 2010 - Will We Hit 3,000???
The Night OUT at the Nationals game is coming soon.....as of this morning over 2,600 tickets have been purchased in our section and we want to hit 3,000! Getting seats in the Night OUT section is easy....just go to www.teamdc.org and follow the prompts and print out your tickets at home.

Here's the line-up for the Night OUT:
The First Pitch will be thrown by the Rev. Candy Holmes and the Rev. Darlene Garner. They were one of the first couples to be legally married in the District of Columbia. What a great way to honor this historic achievement for our community!
Openly gay Ward One City Council Member Jim Graham will start the game with the iconic "Play Ball"!
Longtime community activist and former owner of Lambda Rising Bookstore, Deacon Maccubbin, will take the official line-up card to the umpires that night.
The Gay Men's Chorus of Washington will lead us in the singing of the National Anthem.
The DC Different Drummers will be playing on the main plaza as you enter the stadium that night
Remember, game time is 7:05 PM, but you want to be in the stadium no later than 6:30 to catch all the pre-game excitement. Then we take on the Royals who will learn that They Aren't in Kansas Anymore!!!!!!

The Night OUT at the Nationals game is proudly sponsored by Nellie's Bar (www.nellliessportsbar.com), the Washington Blade newspaper (www.washingtonblade.com), Miller Lite Beer (www.millerlite.com) and a new social networking site MisterMeetMister.com (www.MisterMeetMister.com).


Night OUT Warm-Up Party on Sunday, June 20
Get ready for the Night OUT with a Warm-Up Party on Sunday, June 20 from 6-8 PM at Nellie's Sports Bar (900 U Street, NW). We will feature a special Miller Lite Beer Bash, along with special offers from MisterMeetMister.com and great Nationals giveaways including premium tickets to games later in the year and autographed memorabilia.


Next Night OUT.....at the Mystics!
Join us for another great Night OUT on Friday, August 20 when the Mystics host the NY Liberty. Wanda Wright is coordinating tickets and groups. Contact her at alionessroars@yahoo.com.


Gay Games VIII in Cologne is July 31-August 7
The Gay Games kick off in Cologne next month, so if you are planning on attending, there is still time to purchase your Team Uniform Shirt and trading pins. Just go to www.teamdc.org and follow the prompts to the PayPal site to place your order. Deadline is June 25!!!! Also, remember to keep Thursday, July 15 open for our Send Off Party at Nellie's for the Gay Games. (Uniform Shirts and Pins can be picked up at the July 15 Party.)


Monthly Gamers Night on Thursday, June 17
Every third Thursday of the month is the monthly Gamers Night at Town (2009 8th Street, NW). Join us for the latest in video games, Flip Cup Competitions, Beer Pong, and the very popular $5 Bottomless Beer Cup. Doors open at 8 PM until....??? $5 cover gets unlimited play all night long.


A PRIDE-ful Thank You!
A special thanks to everyone who helped at the various Pride Festival events over the past weekend. Special thanks to the G-Nats Fan Club, DC Aquatics Club, the DC Frontrunners, the Capital Volleyball League, the DC Strokes Rowing Club, the Capital Area Rainbowlers Association, the Washington Furies Women's Rugby Team, the DC Flag Football League, and the Capital Tennis Association for helping to staff the Beer and Wine Gardens.


Breaking News from the IceBreakers!
They are back on the ice tonight (June 16) for an hour of recreational ice skating at 7:45 PM at the Ballston IcePlex in Arlington. Then they'll head off to somewhere close for a post-skating get-together. But, wait, there's more!
Sunday, June 27 - Virginia Winery Tour in Middleburg at the Swedenburg Winery. YOU MUST RSVP to Neil at pinmagic@msn.com for a discount ticket (which is an incredible deal).
Saturday, July 10 - The Third Annual B.Y.O.E Picnic (Bring Your Own Everything) at Great Falls National Park. This is a terrific way to spend a summer day!
Complete details about these events and much more at www.DCIceBreakers.org.


Monthly Green Lantern-Team DC Club Fundraiser - Saturday, July 10
Every second Saturday of each month is Team DC Club Night at the Green Lantern (1335 Green Court, NW). In July join members of the IBGO Mid-Year Bowling Committee as they sell shooters to benefit the tournament to be held here in November. Each month a different team takes over, so if you want them to support you, you gotta support them! Next Month: August 14, Team TBA!


And On Sale that night.....
The cookbook "Strike-ingly Delicious Dishes: Cooking With Time to Spare" is now on sale by the group organizing the 2010 International Gay Bowling Organization (IGBO) Mid-Year Tournament to be held in DC in November, 2010. This 100 page book is full of 93 quick & easy recipes from bowlers, who turn out to be great cooks. Everything from Breakfast to Desserts and not a gutter ball among them! Cost is only $10 in person at any local CARA league or for $12.50 online at www.igbomy2010.com. Supplies are limited!


Fourth Thursdays at Nellie's - June 25
Join two very different clubs at Nellie's Sports Bar (900 U Street, NW) on the Fourth Thursday of each month:
Ping Pong Madness begins at 7:30. Register for a spot with JJ "The Paddler" Johnson at jj@emersonglenn.com.
Homoto is the area's LGBT motorcycle club meets at 6 PM. Learn about upcoming rides and events.

Cowboy Dancing
Join our friends from the DC Cowboys and learn to dance like a...DC Cowboy! Two six week sessions are upcoming June 24 - July 29 or again from September 23 - October 28 and will be held at the Church of the Pilgrims, 2201 P Street, NW. All skill levels welcome. Learn more at www.dccowboys.org.

You can also join them for the monthly Brodeo at Town Danceboutique (2009 8th Street, NW) on Saturday, June 19 at 8 PM. Jonathan Bascope will be making his singing debut along with new dance routines from the Cowboys.


Summer Bowling Leagues Just Underway!
The Capital Area Rainbowlers Association (CARA) is once again sponsoring summer leagues. This is a great time for individuals to try out the sport, socialize with other bowlers, and are perfect for beginners! All leagues will consist of 3-person teams and run only 10 or 11 weeks. Email them to see if any space is still available or to sub.

Tuesdays at AMF Alexandria Lanes (6228A N. Kings Hwy. Alexandria) beginning June 8th at 7:30 PM.
Contact Clyde at clyde.conklin@gmail.com

Wednesdays at AMF Centreville Lanes (13814 Lee Highway, Centreville) beginning June 2nd at 7:30 PM.
Contact Scott at scottws2000@yahoo.com

Wednesdays at White Oak Duckpin Lanes (11207 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring) beginning June 2nd at 7:30 PM.
Contact Richard at richaron@usa.net

Thursdays at Bowl America Falls Church (140 S Maple Ave., Falls Church) beginning June 10th at 7:30 PM
Contact Les at les.johnson@gmail.com

Tuesday Night Volleyball Continues All Summer Long
One of DC's longest running sport clubs is the year-round Tuesday Night Social Volleyball League held at the Old Mackin Gym at 2200 California Street, NW. (Enter from California Street at the end of the parking lot.) Warm ups are from 7-7:30 and play is from 7:30 - 9:45. Teams are divided based on skill levels to maintain a fair level of play. $8 per person each night with a limit of 48 players each night. Want to know more? Contact Mike at dcvb@usa.com.


Sail Away!
Did you know DC has a great LGBT sailing club? Sailing season is now underway on the weekends and even during the week. The Rainbow Spinnakers would love for you to join them for an afternoon on the Potomac or the Chesapeake Bay. To learn more about them, go to www.rainbowspinnakers.com.

Monday, June 14, 2010

WIN AN ALL-ACCESS PASS for BINGHAM CUP

Hi Everyone,

We have an all-access pass to Bingham Cup to give away. Yes, this includes the parties where you can meet some hot rugby players who are vising from other parts of the United States and the World.

Let us know if you're interested in this pass and you're in the Minneapolis Area.

Contact alfonzo@competemag.com

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Last chance: Registration is still possible until June 21

Many Gay Games VIII sports and cultural events needed exact numbers for event planning. That is why official registration was closed on May 31. However there is still one more chance to participate in Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010.

You can now be placed on a waiting list to participate. Our sports and culture experts will check if a registration is still possible in your event. If so, we will provide late registration for you.

Please send an e-mail now to waitinglist@games-cologne.de with the following information:

- Last Name
- First name
- Date of birth
- Sport or cultural event
- If necessary performance class or division for the event

You will be informed as soon as possible if participation at the sports or culture event of your choice is still possible and how you should proceed. If a registration is possible in your case we will charge you an additional service fee of 10 Euros for the late registration.

So open your e-mail program and register now! It is not too late. Please share this message with teammates or anyone else that still wishes to register.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Want to win a boyrio swimsuit of your choice?

We're feeling giving today. The Tenth person to email alfonzo@competemag.com will win a a certificate for a boyrio swimsuit.

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

It´s the final countdown

Act now if you have waited to register for the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010. On May 31, registration ends for artists and athletes. After that it will be too late, although you can watch when others fight for their personal bests. So register now at www.games-cologne.de .

Sports climbing

Not only in the Alps but also in the Cathedral city of Cologne you can go climbing. Our precipice in the “KletterFABRIK” climbing facility in the Koeln-Ehrenfeld area of Cologne offers three levels of difficulty where you can prove your strategic expertise. It will get serious in the finale, as this takes place “on sight”, to say, on a wall that couldn´t be checked out previously. Whoever is the first on top wins the competition – but only if you register before May, 31, you will win one of the rare free places.
Be part of it when from Aug, 3 2010 the sports climbers compete against each other and register now! Back-up ropes and trained personnel are provided by us, all the other equipment you have to bring yourself. All informations you´ll get here.

Hefty – power lifting

At the Gay Games, the sport called power lifting is often the one with the most impressive muscles. Those who would want to lift all weights of the competition would have to lift a ton. In reality, of course this isn´t possible. Nevertheless, the winners are determined through addition of their coped weights. Those who do not wish to compete in all three disciplines, are also welcome to participate! Medals will also be given for the participants of individual disciplines. So, if you would like to prove your power with others in the competitions, register now!

Icy but not dispassionate – figure skating

On the contrary, one of the most expressive sports is always a major attraction at the competitions like the Gay Games. There will be Single and Pair competition in every possible constellation. Woman and woman, man and man, woman and man. There is no limit. Everybody can participate like at the “Fabulous Cup”, which for many years now is an institution at the gay-lesbian figure skating scene. Should you have missed the FabCup until now, this year in Cologne, “Be Part Of It!” The field is more international, more professional, and the atmospheres even more glamorous. The organizers are old hands and are looking forward to your registration. Register and be part of the dance on …. ice. More informations available here.

Softball – American feeling at the Rhine

Two teams, one ball, one bat and one field, are all needed for Softball. This variation of baseball is one of the most liked leisure sports in North America. The two different games are distinguished mainly by the size of the quadrant of the circle and different throwing methods. Also the ball and bat sizes are different. Would you like to be part of the 500 sportsmen and –women who are going to have a lot of fun fighting for the 1200 balls? Would you like to be counted to the players who throw the balls on the juicy lawns in Cologne into the brilliant blue sky and mark the first homeruns for their team? Then just kill two birds with one stone: Register for the competitions in softball and be part of it in August, when the best batter from all over the world begin with their competition.
You can find all info here.

And by the way…….

…… are you looking for a partner for training?
…… or a training opponent
….. if your team still isn´t complete
….. if you´re still not part of a team
….. if you just want to exchange with somebody

You´re at the right place at www.qubesport.net . This network for sportsmen and –women and interested people is the platform to exchange about sports, organize the training, to arrange tournaments, find teams and much more. Just check it out.

Monday, May 17, 2010

The sports world is still reluctant to accept homosexuality

This survey was taken in Canada:

Montréal, May 14, 2010 – This morning for the International Day Against Homophobia, Fondation Émergence revealed the results from a survey on people's perceptions concerning homophobia in the sports world. As a reminder, the 2010 Campaign proposed by Fondation Émergence to fight homophobia and entitled Speaking About Silence calls on all key figures in the sports world.


The public is ready to accept gay and lesbian athletes


For the majority of respondents, 77 % of Québec residents and 68 % from other Canadian provinces, knowing what an athlete's sexual orientation is would not influence an athlete's popularity among fans. Conversely, 18 % in Québec and 20 % elsewhere in Canada, people believe that being gay or lesbian would negatively affect their popularity among fans. Only 5 % and 8 % believe that it would have a positive effect on popularity among fans.


Gay and lesbian athletes reportedly have a lower likelihood of success than heterosexuals do


When asked about the likelihood of success in a gay or lesbian athlete's sports career in comparison with a male heterosexual athlete's, 31 % of Québec respondents and 34 % of respondents from the rest of Canada believe that the likelihood of success would be less than a heterosexual male athlete's.



In sports, a woman's being lesbian is accepted better than a man's being gay


Furthermore, a considerable difference can be seen in people's perceptions regarding lesbian women. Only 13 % of Québec respondents and 20 % of respondents in the rest of Canada believe that their likelihood of success would be less than heterosexual women's. As for people's acceptance of popular gay and lesbian athletes, lesbian women are viewed more favourably than gay men are. Lesbian women have an acceptance level of 74 % among people in Québec compared to 65 % for rest of Canada whereas gay men are only accepted by 60 % of Québec residents versus 52 % for other Canadians.


“This result tends to show that the sports world is a realm that values sexist stereotypes. Women whose physical strength surpasses what's average will be highly esteemed and their chances of success will increase. Yet on the other hand, a gay man's image is still too often equated with poorer physical ability even if it's just plain untrue.” says Mr. Laurent McCutcheon, President of Fondation Émergence. He adds: “In a competition or race the best athletes win regardless of their sexual orientation.”


The sports community does not take the fight against homophobia seriously


Are athletic organizations concerned about the fight against homophobia? When answering this question, only 24 % of Québec respondents and 23 % of respondents elsewhere in Canada think that people are concerned about the fight against homophobia in this community; the other respondents either believe that people are not concerned about it or are unable to answer the question.


Clear progress in attitudes between 2003 and 2010, regarding teammates


A question asked in 2003 for a telephone survey conducted by Léger Marketing in Québec was repeated last April and using the same method. “In your opinion, would a hockey player people know is gay be more well accepted or more poorly accepted by the players or trainer of a professional hockey team?” In 2003, 29 % of respondents said that he would be more well received whereas 42 % said so in 2010. Only 37 % of respondents believe that a gay hockey player would be poorly accepted by his team whereas in 2003, 61 % thought so.


The answer to this question is encouraging. “It shows that if people's perceptions have clearly improved within less than 7 years, such perceptions do not necessarily carry over to sports teams and organizations dedicated to sports. It's all about education and awareness. In this respect it looks like campaigns to fight against homophobia are showing results.” says Fondation Émergence's President.


Speaking About Silence


The 2010 Fight Against Homophobia Campaign is geared toward the sports world and carries the theme: Speaking About Silence. The survey results show the need, particularly on all levels of the sports world, to discuss gay and lesbian issues. This community is one of the most reluctant to accept homosexuality. The sports world is a competitive world in which everyone needs to be up to par with standards of success. Just as gay men and lesbians do not warrant any extraordinary treatment, they should not end up excluded due to their sexual orientation.


People know what they are talking about


Almost all respondents are up-to-date on what the word homophobia means. 97 % of those in Québec and 96 % of those in the rest of Canada are familiar with the definition. A majority of respondents, 85 % in Québec and 82 % elsewhere in Canada, personally know gay men and lesbians, with most knowing more men than women. According to Mr. McCutcheon “This level of acquaintance shows that in most cases that people are now aware of gay and lesbian issues and that the sports world cannot go on isolating itself”.


Survey methodology


The study was carried out from March 26 to April 4, 2010 by the Léger Marketing company for Fondation Émergence. It was conducted among 1501 people chosen from the Legerweb panel in Canada and weighted with help by Statistics Canada in order to provide it with a proportionate scale. The question on the “gay hockey player and his team” was the subject of a telephone survey between March 13 and April 6, 2010, among 1003 Québec residents by following the same method used in 2003, so as to ensure answer comparability. Complete survey results are available on the International Day Against Homophobia website at www.homophobiaday.org.

“Surprise Days” from May, 21 thru May, 23 2010

Registering for the Gay Games VIII is now twice worthwhile to new registrants. Not only an unforgettable week full of sport, cultural and emotional highlights awaits the participants; now, more than 140 precious prizes will be distributed between the new applicants. Those who register between May, 21 and May, 23, automatically take part in the draw for some awesome prizes. There are shopping vouchers (each worth 50 €), vouchers for a visit in a bath, high quality sports dresses, a diving course, a course to take a glimpse at archery, as also numerous books, DVDs and CDs. Just visit our website www.games-cologne.de and register at your sport and your cultural event. All participants enter the RheinEnergieStadium for the big opening ceremony. Also at the Gay Games, there is a varied supporting program with lots of parties and events. Register between May, 21 and May, 23 for the Gay Games and win twice!

read more: www.games-cologne.com

Be part of it!

Monday, May 10, 2010

THE Megaparty of the year on 6 areas


Colour presents the official Opening Party – The ingredients are explosive !


Germany's biggest event hall, five dancefloors, DJ's on the the main floor: TONY MORAN, FABIO WHITE, STEVEN REDANT, MICKY FRIEDMANN. Djane LUSKY from Italy will be the Star of the night on the women's floor. On the Pop floor a mix of Cologne and Berlin: GLORIA VIAGRA will be representing the german capital and the DJ's KRIS and RALF ROTTERDAM from the Cologner Clubbing range POPTASTIC. Internationally renowned „Kraft-Artists“ will heat up the crowd. A super live act by FLAVA. A VIP Area, that deserves its name and probably the only Party with a carroussel, the KETTENFLIEGER! And for those who need a small break, go to the OUTSIDE CHILL OUT Area.

A Clubbing Night of the superlatives, that Cologne, that Germany, that Europe has not seen yet.

The Opening Party will take place on 07/31/2010 immediately after the Opening Ceremony in the RheinEnergieStadion. You can take the Line 1 of Straßenbahn in front of the stadion and directly go the LanxessArena. Furthermore the Deutsche Bahn will provide EXTRA TRAINS from to the Stadion to the Arena. You haven't seen this goody at no Gay Games before.

Triumph & Temptation“ - the sportiest Women Party Event 2010

Sporty Ladies party on three floors with Live Percussion Acts and Gogogirls!

The Women Pleasure Party, Organizer of the largest CSD Women-Party in Germany, exclusively invites you to the official Gay Games Female Party „Triumph & Temptation“. After having intensely practiced sports during daytime you can party, dance and flirt with sporty ladies from all over the world in the Stollwerck Arena on THREE FLOORS. Djane Jessica from Berlin will spoil the women with ALLTIME FAVOURITES and POP and INDIE Hits. DJ Miss Diamond will assure a fiery show on the HOUSE floor. Beneath hot beats the percussions, balearic and deep house rhythms in the right party mood.
In the Chill Area on the third floor, under a magical starry night, you'll be able to rest your dancing feet. Kölsch, sparkling wine, Selters and Tropical Cocktails and more exquisite drinks will bring you back on the saddle in order to party until the break of dawn.

Triumph & Temptation – THE Party for all sporty women.

On 08/06/2010 starting 21:00 in Stollwerck, Dreikönigenstr. 23, 50678 Cologne

Get your tickets here.

Pride-Express connects Community Metropoles

The special Party train starts from Berlin for all athletes and visitors of the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010

The specially chartered train will be starting from the german capital Berlin in the Ostbahnhof (Eastern train station). In order to enjoy the journey direction Rheinland, there will also be beneath the cosy 6 persons compartments the Bar waggon with disco... and dancefloor. There will also be a smoking area on the train and adjustable speakers for the onboard entertainment within the compartments. Different actions on the way will guarantee a short journey and the best accommodation for the Gay Games.

Possibilities to get on board: Berlin Ostbahnhof (Eastern train station) (Departure at appr. 10 AM), Berlin Hbf (Main Station), Berlin Zoologischer Garten, Potsdam Hbf (Main Station), Braunschweig Hbf (Main Station) and Hannover Hbf (Main Station).

Friday, May 7, 2010

SWIMSUIT ISSUE TEASER



Here are a few photos from our Swimsuit Issue to hold you over until you get your copy of COMPETE