London’s first ever LGBTQ+ sports festival a resounding success
By Sophia Shade
The Out For Sports Festival gave LGBTQ+ individuals an opportunity to participate in a plethora of different sporting activities, ranging from rugby to line dancing.
On June 16, more than 500 visitors took part in the event as part of Pride in London.
It was the first of its kind, with approximately 15 LGBTQ+ inclusive clubs offering free taster classes for those willing to dabble in a new sport.
The event hoped to help break down barriers in sport for LGBTQ+ people, highlight the health benefits of an active lifestyle, as well as showcase talent in inclusive sports teams.
Supported by Better, and located at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, people were encouraged to take part no matter their skill or fitness level, as the event aimed to be as inclusive as possible.
Given the sports centre has hosted a variety of national and international sporting championships in the past, attendees were sure to be inspired by the level of talent that has passed through the venue.
Event organiser David Lionetti commented on the fantastic turnout, adding that the visitors had the opportunity to, “make new friends and experience the mental and physical benefits that sport and physical activities can offer.”
He hopes that next year, the event will have even greater success, reaching more people to make it “bigger and better in 2025.”
Pictured top: The Out For Sports Festival (Picture: GLL)