Sir Elton John Becomes Gay Games Ambassador; As Chicago prepares for 2006, Cologne, Johannesburg and Paris Await Next Week's Announcement of 2010 Host City

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 7 /U.S. Newswire/ -- The Federation of Gay Games is proud to announce that Sir Elton John has become a Gay Games Ambassador.

Sir Elton said, "I am thrilled to be involved with the Gay Games. For more than two decades the Gay Games have turned a well-deserved spotlight on athletic and cultural performances by members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and their friends from around the world."

The Gay Games Ambassadors are an international group of prominent individuals supporting the goals and principles of the quadrennial Gay Games. First held in 1982, Gay Games VII takes place in Chicago, U.S.A., from 15-22 July 2006.

The Host City for the 2010 Gay Games will be selected and announced at the Federation of Gay Games annual meeting next week in Chicago. Three bid cities - Cologne, Johannesburg and Paris - will gather in Chicago for final presentations to the Federation board. The announcement will be on Sunday, 13 November 2005, at 3 PM, in the Wabash Room at the Palmer House Hotel, 17 East Monroe Street, Chicago, IL, 312-726-7500. A news conference with the Host City and the Federation of Gay Games will be held the following day on Monday, 14 November 2005, in the Clark 3 Room of the Palmer House.

"The Federation of Gay Games has an excellent working relationship with each bid city. Whichever city wins the 2010 Gay Games will carry on the 24-year legacy of the Gay Games," said Kathleen Webster, co-president of the Federation.

"We feel truly honoured that Sir Elton John has become an ambassador for the Gay Games", said Roberto Mantaci, co-president of the Federation. "For many years, he has been an 'ambassador' for the entire LGBT community, particularly through his charitable work, and his contribution has been immense".