The biggest LGBT sports and cultural festival in the world took place in Cologne from July 31 to August 7, 2010. Some 10,000 participants from more than 70 countries converged for the Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010 and celebrated the principles of participation, inclusion and personal best. There were 35 sports and 5 culture categories where people from all over the world took part in, not to mention numerous parties and other events during the event.
The motto was Be part of it! and the invitation was open to everyone – heterosexual or homosexual, male, female, transgender or transsexual, and regardless of religion, nationality, ethnic heritage, political convictions, athletic skills, physical capabilities, age or physical condition.
Gay Games VIII Cologne 2010, which opened at the RheinEnergieStadion on Saturday, July 31, ended a week later with an incredible celebration at the Tanzbrunnen in Cologne, Germany on Saturday, August 7. The Co-Presidents of the FGG and Games Cologne spoke and thanked all the volunteers for the many years of work to complete a successful week. Cologne passed the FGG flag to Cleveland-Akron, Ohio, USA, the host city of Gay Games IX Cleveland-Akron 2014.
The organisers and city officials thanked all participants, visitors and the people from Cologne for coming and a fantastic week. Together they made the VIII. Gay Games Cologne 2010 a wonderful event.
At the event the participants, guests and visitors had the chance to experience some very unique moments. We witnessed full support from public figures like Dr. Guido Westerwelle, German Vice Chancellor and Foreign Minister, Matthew Mitcham, Australian Olympic medallist, Taylor Dayne, American Pop Artist, and many others, from politicians, athletes and others.
European Gay & Lesbian Sport Federation (EGLFS) cooperated with Gay Games Cologne 2010 and Federation of Gay Games (FGG), promoting the event prior to its start and inviting its members to participate. EGLSF Board members, lead by both co-presidents, were present both at the opening and closing ceremonies, and several also actively participated in the Games as athletes.
Congratulations to the Organisers and FGG for the successful event. It's also worth pointing out that EGLSF member club S.C. Janus actively contributed to the event, so congratulations to them as well!