Athletes from North America are flocking to World Outgames 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark, 25 July to 2 August 2009 to take part in the largest multi-sports event for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender men and women (LGBT) this summer. At the time of writing, more than 25 % of those registered come from the USA and Canada, so American and Canadian athletes are therefore bound to be well represented in the medal tables. A total of 8000 people from around 100 countries are expected to take part in the 38 sports tournaments, countless cultural festivals and the international conference on LGBT Human Rights

For nine days, Copenhagen will be the setting for one of the world’s largest events for homosexuals, bisexuals and the transgender community. The focal point is a massive programme of sports events, which can best be described as an Olympics for lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender men and women (LGBT). The World Outgames will also include extensive queer cultural activities and enormous parties for participants and Copenhageners.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome all the athletes from the USA and Canada. And we’re looking forward to welcoming them to Denmark’s capital city – Wonderful Copenhagen – for a unique sports event taking place in Europe for the first time,” says Ole Udsholt, Campaign Manager for the World Outgames.

Registration for the World Outgames is possible right up until 1 May. By taking part, athletes will not just be part of one of the largest and most extensive sports and cultural events in the world for the LGBT community, but will also help send a signal to the world about how important it is for society to be tolerant and diverse.

“Alongside the numerous sports and cultural activities, there will be an international human rights conference addressing the issues and concerns of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, one of the objectives of which is to put focus on the fact that one third of the world’s countries still criminalise homosexuality. World Outgames will definitely offer a lot of sports, big parties and many fantastic opportunities to meet people from all four corners of the world. But it is important not to forget that there are many homosexuals who suffer from oppression purely because they love someone of the same gender. World Outgames wants change that.” says Uffe Elbaek, Word Outgames CEO.

World Outgames is the largest international sports and cultural event in Denmark in 2009, with well-known Danish and international politicians, as well as a large number of international sports, cultural and business figures being actively involved in its inception.

Read more and register for the World Outgames at www.copenhagen2009.org

For more information, please contact:
Ole Udsholt, Campaign Manager Phone: +45 3062 5569 mail: ole@copenhagen2009.org