200 days until Qeltic Games 2024
13th February 2024
Countdown Begins
200 Days until inaugural Qeltic Games shines a spotlight on LGBTQIA+ sport in the UK
Perth, UK — With 200 days to go, the countdown has begun to a momentous moment for grassroots LGBTQIA+ sport in the UK, as Perth prepares to play host to the inaugural Qeltic Games on August 31.
Organised by LEAP Sports Scotland in collaboration with a host of partner organisations and volunteers, the multi-sports event will bring together queer teams, athletes and allies in an inclusive and inspiring environment.
In addition to championing participation in community sport, the Games will amplify the visibility and awareness of queer athletes.
Terrence Teixeira, a representative from the Board of LEAP Sports Scotland, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, "As we proudly unveil details for the Qeltic Games, LEAP Sports, in cooperation with our local and national partners, look forward to delivering a vibrant and inclusive multisport event. These Games symbolise more than a sporting competition; they embody our commitment to fostering a platform where all individuals feel welcomed, respected, and empowered to be their authentic selves. With just 200 days to go, we are thrilled to extend a warm invitation to participants from across the UK and beyond to join us in Perth for a memorable occasion!"
The Qeltic Games coincide with a landmark year for Perth, as the city’s new Museum opens its doors in March following a £27 million redevelopment project.
Perth and Kinross Council Equalities Champion Cllr Peter Barrett , commented, “It is absolutely tremendous that Perth will be the host of the first ever Qeltic Games in 200 days time. Perth has so much to offer as a venue for events. To be an integral part of this fantastic LGBTIQ+ sporting tournament is great. I am looking forward to welcoming hundreds of LGBTIQ+ athletes and competitors to Perth later this year. It is a great reflection on our Fair City and the Council’s support for inclusion and equal opportunities for all. I want to congratulate the organisers for all their hard work and determination to make the Qeltic Games happen, here in Perth.”
The core sport programme for the 2024 Games will feature athletics, badminton, football, golf, pickleball, roller derby, and rugby, with partner organisations supporting the staging of each individual event.
Keith Russell, CEO of Badminton Scotland, shared his thoughts on being part of the Qeltic Games, stating, " On behalf of Badminton Scotland, I'm delighted, and very proud to be an organising partner on the inaugural Qeltic Games. In the past 6 months, Badminton Scotland has joined the National LGBTI Sports Group as well as releasing a new LGBTIQ+ e-learning education course, overall strengthening our commitment to LGBTIQ+ inclusion. The Qeltic Games is a fantastic opportunity to showcase badminton as the diverse, inclusive, and welcoming sport that we know it to be. Lastly, I'd like to thank Glenearn Badminton Club who will be our leading representatives in Perth throughout the event."
Further details on how you can get involved – as a participant, partner, volunteer or spectator – will be revealed in the coming weeks, with people across the UK encouraged to play their part in a day of celebration in Perth.
Follow @QelticGames on Facebook, Instagram and X to stay updated with the latest news building-up to the Games and find out how you can be part of the excitement in Perth.
