Gay Games

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The Gay Games is an athletic and cultural event conceived by Dr. Tom Waddell, an Olympic decathlete, and was first held in San Francisco in 1982. Every four years the Gay Games welcome over 10,000 athletes in 30+ sports. Any adult athlete is welcome: all genders, gay or straight, novice or elite. Participants range from rank beginners to Olympic medalists, and each individual partakes in genuine competition in an atmosphere of fun and mutual support.^[1]

Mission & Background

The mission of the Federation of Gay Games is to promote equality, diversity and inclusion through sport and culture.

The Gay Games is built upon the core principles of Participation, Inclusion, and Personal Best™. Based on these values, since 1982, the Gay Games have brought together people from all over the world, with diversity, respect, equality, solidarity, and sharing. The Gay Games is open to all, young or old, athlete or artist, experienced or novice, gay or straight.

It is a fundamental principle of the Federation of Gay Games that all activities conducted under its auspices shall be inclusive in nature and that no individual shall be excluded from participating on the basis of sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, political belief(s), athletic/artistic ability, physical challenge, age, or health status.^[2]