City of Copenhagen to host 2nd World Outgames

Officials of the City of Copenhagen announced a partnership with the Gay and Lesbian International Sports Association (GLISA) to deliver the 2nd World Outgames in 2009. A formal partnership agreement is to be concluded by year-end. Mr. Martin Geertsen, Mayor of the Committee of Culture and Sport of Copenhagen, was said to be thrilled by the news. He indicated that the event would be a warm up prelude to a possible 2024 International Olympic Games bid.

Copenhagen officials, meeting in Montreal with GLRF representatives, declared without hesitation that rowing would be one of the core sports offered in the 2nd World Outgames. Rowers around the world need only remember the wonderful 2003 Copenhagen Mermaid Regatta to understand that the rowing venue and organizational capacity is already in place and ready to go.

The news of the selection of a city for the 2nd World Outgames was welcomed around the world by athletes and sports teams wondering if the World Outgames would be a one off event. Two cities have already declared their intention to bid for the 2013 3rd World Outgames: Manchester, UK, and Sao Paulo, BR. It is rumored that Berlin is preparing a bid for 2017 4th World Outgames.