Why LGBT sport? A great example from the TIP Paris International Tournament

At last weekend's TIP Paris International Tournament there was a screening of clips from TV and movies about LGBT sport. During the discussion period I took issue with the moderator's position that in the absence of homophobia, there would be no need for LGBT sport.

I believe that there is a need for LGBT sport, independent of the very real problem of homophobia, in part because of the social role of sport. I also feel that there are modalities and values of sport found in the LGBT community that are distinct and worthwhile.

We saw an example of this at the TIP track meet. The last-place runner in the 5K track event was far behind everyone else. For the final lap, dozens of runners joined her to encourage her to the end. It's a moment that people who were there will take with them forever, and perhaps more meaningful than any medal they might have won. 

-- Marc Naimark

(Thanks to Jean François Vansnick for this great photo)

Last day at TIP sports village

Sunday was the last full day at the Sports Village of the TIP Paris International Tournament. The day was focused on dancing, and opened with a screening of Australian documentary Ballroom Rules, which follows a group of same-sex dancers training for and competing at Gay Games VIII in Cologne, 2010.

Les Gais Musette continued the day with a series of open classes and dance sessions in the demonstration area.

FGG board members Marc Naimark and Sonia Abécassis had the pleasure of meeting Barbara and Adam from Eurogames 2011.

French junior education minister presents trophies at TIP football tournament

George Pau-Langevin (center), recently named junior minister for educational success, was on hand at the trophy ceremony for the tournament organized by Paris Football Club Arc en ciel as part of the TIP Paris International Tournament. The tournament took place in the 20th Arrondissement, where Mme Pau-Langevin served as MP until being named to the current cabinet.

Also seen are FSGL president Christelle Foucault (left) and PFC Arc en ciel president Cyril Belier.