Gay Games 9 reps announced another first for this summer’s games: Rock climbing, or sport climbing, as it is sometimes known, is making its inaugural appearance August in Cleveland. Rock climbing is one of the fastest-growing sports and requires strength, balance and technique to reach the goal. Divisions are being created to accommodate both men and women of all climbing abilities for a two-day climbing and bouldering competition. As a reminder, you must register as a participant first before enrolling in any of the competitions. You can get the up-to-date deets at gg9cle.org.
So you’re not really the athletic type but you wouldn’t mind hanging out with all those hot athletes? You can still visit and attend the events and cheer on your favorite Philadelphia athlete. Or find someone who doesn’t speak English and establish other ways to communicate. But wouldn’t it be cool to compete in something like beer pong or pool or darts or something?
You’re in luck.
Pool and darts are two of the not-so-athletic games that are regularly part of the quadrennial event. These are just two more ways to go to the games and get a medal, especially significant if you’re not athletically driven in any particular sport.
Beer pong is still considered an unofficial game and there are no medals to be won playing it, only new friendships.
Rollin’ ’cross the river
The next Liberty Belle Invitational roller-skating fundraiser is 8:30-10:30 p.m. Feb. 17 at Cherry Hill Skating Center, 664 Deer Road in Cherry Hill. Cost is $10 per person and you can bring your own inline, rink, roller-derby or other non-ice skates or rent them there for $3. Bring cash or a credit card, as there is no ATM at the rink. There is a skate shop and some limited concessions. I also highly recommend a navigator or checking the maps beforehand; the rink is off the beaten path.
Liberty Belle Invitational is the LGBT bowling tournament hosted here in Philly every Independence Day weekend, which anyone can bowl in, provided they have an established average. You can get more information on LBI events at lbievents.com, info on the host organization Philadelphia Gay Bowling League on its Facebook page and other info on the skate by emailing [email protected], or calling Phil at 856-889-1434. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Keeping it brief
Cupid’s Undie Run is happening in Philadelphia for the second year. This dead-of-winter fundraiser for the Children’s Tumor Foundation aims to put the “hilarity in charity” by garnering money while having fun. If you consider running in freezing weather in your underwear fun.
This year the party starts at noon Feb. 15 at XFinity Live with the run at 2 p.m. and more fun after. Join in, form a team or just SEPTA down to South Philly and check out all the crazies and, yes, some hotties in their undies or swimsuits. Get more information at cupidsundierun.com.
Short stops • Go! Athletes and Team Philadelphia are the hosts for the Winter Olympics opening ceremonies at Philadelphia’s International Pride House at William Way LGBT Community Center. Food and non-alcoholic drinks provided. A requested donation for adults, but students are free! • Falcon Soccer begins its new membership season this month. Dues are $50 for membership through next January; Falcon-soccer.org.
Countdown to Gay Games 9: 210 days. There are many indoor sports to talk about in the winter, so if you know something about one of them you’d like shared, tell me about it at [email protected].