Officials meeting in Cologne, Germany
are expected to announce which U.S. city will host the 2014 Gay Games
on Tuesday.
Three cities are vying for the
opportunity to host the Olympic-style sporting event estimated to be
worth $60 million in economic impact: Boston, Cleveland and
Washington D.C.
Site selection officials toured all
three cities during the summer. Each city gave its final pitch over
the weekend.
Boston organizers began their
presentation with a video message from Mayor Thomas Menino who told
officials, “We want Gay Games IX.” The city's bid revolves
largely around its academic heritage, with a large number of sporting
events to take place at either Boston University or Harvard.
Boston representatives say, “We are
the cradle of liberty.”
Cleveland organizers are hoping the
high visibility of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum will
give them the edge. The museum threw a large party for officials
when they arrived in the city. The bid's theme, My Games Rock!, also
borrows from Cleveland's steeped history in Rock and Roll.
A video message from Ohio Governor Ted
Strickland started out Cleveland's presentation. Organizers say the
city is accessible, affordable and hospitable.
Cleveland representatives say, “Bring
the Gay Games to Cleveland and you come home to family.”
Washington D.C. organizers touted the
city's strong ties to past events. With many veterans of past of Gay
Games on its leadership committee organizers say, “We are the Gay
Games.”
The city's bid enjoys wide support from local
politicians, including Mayor Adrian Fenty who says he's prepared to
compete in the games' triathlon.
Offering the Obama inauguration as
evidence, Washington organizers say they are prepared to host the Gay
Games in 2014.
Cologne, Germany is the host city of
the 2010 Gay Games.
Official Cleveland Gay Games bid:
www.clevelandsynergyfoundation.org
Official Boston Gay Games bid:
www.boston2014.com
Official District of Columbia Gay Games
bid: www.dcfreedomgames2014.com