Aussie Cyclist Becomes Gay Games Ambassador

Local News, By Christian Taylor, 28th May, 2008

Michelle Ferris is one of our cycling greats. She competed in the Sydney 2000 games, she has world and Olympic medals to her name and she’s just been made one of the ambassadors of the Gay Games, which hit Cologne, Germany in 2010.

“I relish the opportunity to be a Gay Games Ambassador”, says Ferris. “The Gay Games provide a unique opportunity for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender athletes and artists from around the world to come together in celebration.

“By highlighting our sporting and cultural achievements under the three Gay Games principles of ‘Participation, Inclusion and Personal Best’, we have the opportunity to celebrate our accomplishments in a safe and supportive environment.”

Here here!

Ferris has had a great 20 year career in cycling. She won silver at the 1996 Olympics. In 2000 she didn’t win gold, but she did beat her five year personal best, so that won us all over. Ferris loves that her sporting prowess has enabled her to shine a light on political issues that really matter to her – like gay equality.

“Until we have full legal and societal equality, gays and lesbians, especially those with a public profile, should come out. Elite athletes have the responsibility and the honour of serving as role models for the LGBT community, and we can do this by living our lives proudly.”

As an ambassador, Ferris is in good company, which includes athletes from all over there world, as well as Sir Elton John.

“The selection of Michelle Ferris to be a Gay Games Ambassador is the FGG’s way of recognising her contributions to the international sport and culture community as a world champion, an Olympic medallist and an elite cyclist”, said Kate Rowe, a spokersperson from the Gay Games.