VIII. Gay Games Cologne 2010

The atmosphere in the stadium pool is amazing for a wonderful Sunday morning. At 10 a.m. the athletes are already in a working mood, hundreds of participants, volunteers, Journalists and fans are also very excited. “If you are not here to have fun, you can stay at home directly” says C.A. Hutton. The New Yorker is happy to be here especially for the Gay Games. “The atmosphere is inexpressible. I am since one day here and got already to know so many people from different countries like not in the last five years”.

The swimming competition is equally international like the whole Gay Games. The swimmers are from Australia, USA, France, Germany, Netherlands or New Zealand – slowly the athletes come together and cheer their competitors/colleagues.  The competition thoughts are here rather inappropriate. The swimmers get to know each other and interchange tips and tricks.

The star of the barely 500 participants is the 81-year-old John Kiley from the USA. He is the oldest swimmer of the competition. Despite his artificial hip he starts with 50m back swimming. “The atmosphere is already at best. I came to Cologne with a lot of friends and my partner and we are happy to enjoy a week of sport, culture and party”. He is together with his partner since 57 years.  His formula for success?  “Compromises, compromises, compromises! In the case of small conflicts I am ready to indulge, as long as I proved right considering more important themes” blows charming swimmer.

The audience is also fascinated from the good weather and the atmosphere. For a lot of families and fans is the swimming pool the target of the Sunday trip. Family Schmitz from Cologne only wanted to go swimming with their son and surprisingly discovered the Gay Games. “ So we just stayed to watch the competition”  reports mother Renate. She is fascinated from the friendly atmosphere and good ambience. “ We definitely will stay here for some hours and enjoy the competition” says the 59-year-old and observes the athletes in the pool.

More photos can be found at http://www.qubesport.net/photos