Gay Games Federation concludes inspection of London

By Lauren Mattera

July 18 - The Federation of Gay Games (FGG) has completed its visit to some of London's most iconic venues in its inspection of the city's bid to host the 2018 Gay Games.

Previously visiting remaining finalists Limerick and Paris, the FGG arrived in London for a four-day whistle-stop tour of the city's proposed venues, including The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, which would become the hub of the Games claimed to recapture the spirit of last Summer, if London's bid is successful.

London 2018 chair Alex Davis is confident after the inspection which included several London 2012 venues, such as The O2, the Aquatics Centre and the Southbank Centre.

"We are delighted to welcome the site inspectors to London and have the opportunity to show them our vibrant city," she said.

"We have the venues, infrastructure and enthusiasm that would make the Gay Games in 2018 the best yet."

London 2018 project manager Craig Jones, model Amal Fashanu and London 2018 chair Alex Davis during the FGG's visit

Among the 200 supporters present across the four days was television presenter and model Amal Fashanu, who has been an active campaigner against homophobia faced by sportsmen and women.

"I'm proud to be supporting London's bid for the Gay Games," said the 23-year-old, whose late uncle, Justin Fashanu, was the first openly gay British footballer.

"In 2012, London proved we can use sporting events to make a huge and positive change, and I know we will do the same in 2018."

The FGG concluded its trip with a farewell drinks reception at the ArcelorMittal Orbit in the Queen Elizabeth Park with a speech by British women's sitting volleyball captain Claire Harvey.

"We are determined that London 2018 would be the most inclusive Gay Games ever and would set the benchmark for the future," said the 41-year-old London 2012 Paralympian.

"Our programme of competitive disability events, fully inclusive sports events and cultural activities mean that whoever you are, you can be part of The Games.

"And whether as a volunteer, participant, artist, debator, performer or spectator, London 2018 will be your place to shine."

London 2018 Claire Harvey Team GB womens sitting volleyball team captain

London 2018 Claire Harvey Team GB womens sitting volleyball team captain

Claire Harvey gave a speech at the reception

London's bid for the 2018 Gay Games - expected to attract more than 11,000 athletes from nearly 100 countries - is backed by Mayor of London Boris Johnson and British Prime Minister David Cameron.