summer in the city

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Brighton Lesbian And Gay Sports Society
Summer 2008
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GO BLAGSS
www.blagss.org
Sponsored by
SUMMER IN THE CITY
beach Volleyball FOOTBALL badminton SWIMMING Tai Chi FOOTBALL GOLF
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theregulars
Welcome to the summer edition of GO
BLAGSS. We knew this magazine would be a
great way to promote the activities of Brighton
Lesbian and Gay Sports Society and we’ve
been bowled over by the massive support
we got for our inaugural spring edition from
advertisers, sponsors, sports organisations
and readers.
We were proud to repay the support of
Stonewall, our first sponsors, by helping
make the Equality Walk such a stunning
success. You can read a full report on page
seven. This issue, we’re delighted to welcome
the Environment Agency as our sponsor.
Since most of our sporting activities take
place outdoors, BLAGSS members know the
importance of preserving the beautiful natural
environment of Sussex.
This summer, there really is everything to
play for. Our beach volleyball group will be
feeling the sand between their toes down at the
great Yellow-Wave centre on the seafront. We’re
offering taster sessions for Tai Chi, supported
by the council’s Active for Life initiative. And
we’re aiming for our best Pride ever. We’ll be
running a range of sporting activities during
Pride week. Or if you’re more creative than
athletic, why not help us make our walking
tableau the best in the Parade? Those people
game enough to walk to Preston Park dressed
as giant shuttlecocks and tennis racquets last
year even shed a few pounds en route!
Whatever your plans, we hope this issue
gives you plenty of ideas on how to have a
healthy, active summer. Enjoy your sports!
Tim chair
Please reuse
or recycle
this magazine
when you have
finished with it.
Summer 2008
News Eurogames, and IGLFA World Cup in London
Reviews Sussex Beacon Half Marathon and Walk for Life
Columnist Carol Grant – come on in, the water’s lovely
Columnist Karen Riches – get fit for summer
p.06
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thefeatures
Feature One Pride in Brighton and Hove
Feature Two BLAGSS Football
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blagssactivities
badminton
cycling
darts
football
golf gym
pool
rollerblading
running
martial arts
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sailing
skiing
squash
swimming
tennis virgins / t ennis
tenpin bowling
walking
friday walking
(beach) volleyball
yoga
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foreword
GOBLAGSS
Issue 2 • summer 2008
ISSN 1757-3742
Published quarterly by Brighton Lesbian and Gay
Sports Society (BLAGSS), founded in 1997 to
address the sporting and social needs of the gay
and lesbian community of Brighton and Hove.
Membership is open to all, althogh the majority
of our members are either gay or lesbian and
join to be with like-minded company.
A word from Lesley Burn, director of:
Pride in Brighton and Hove
“Like Pride, BLAGSS
is an organisation that
offers something of
real value to the LGBT
communities in the
city. BLAGSS offers an
alternative to the bar
and club scene, for gay
people who want to
make new friends and
get fit at the same time”
Chair: Tim ([email protected])
Vice Chair: Viv ([email protected])
Secretary: David ([email protected])
Membership: Paul ([email protected])
Webmaster: Andy ([email protected])
Treasurer: Iain ([email protected])
Safety: Martin ([email protected])
Publicity: Carol ([email protected])
Managing Editor: Karen Riches (07811 324 193)
A special thanks to BLAGSS members Kate,
Elaine and Matt and everyone else for helping out
in the production and distribution of this issue.
Telephone: 0845 65 BLAGS www.blagss.org
GOBLAGSS
is produced by The Magazine Doctor Ltd
Editorial Director: Paul Disney
Business Director: Louie Mears
Design, Production and Advertising Sales:
Magazine Doctor Ltd
BM9797, 27 Old Gloucester Street
London WC1N 3XX
Advertising:: 01273 690 602
www.magazinedoctor.co.uk
Registered in England & Wales Number 6249150
© Magazine Doctor Ltd and BLAGSS. All rights
reserved throughout the world. No part of this
publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system or transmitted in any form or
by any means, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise, without prior permission
of Magazine Doctor Ltd or BLAGSS. Information
has been obtained from sources believed to be
reliable, but its accuracy and completeness, and
the opinions based thereon are not guaranteed.
We would like to thank our sponsors and
advertisers for their involvement with
GOBLAGSS magazine. However, we would
like to stress that neither sponsors nor
advertisers have any influence over editorial
content within this magazine.
DISCLAIMER: Publication of the name or
photograph of any person or organisation,
articles or advertising in GOBLAGSS
should not be construed as any indication
of the sexual orientation of such person or
organisation or advertiser.
Sponsored by
City Council Funded
Before becoming director of Pride in Brighton and Hove, much of my career was spent in
the sporting world. So I was delighted to be asked to welcome you to the Pride issue of Go
BLAGSS magazine.
Like Pride, BLAGSS is an organisation that offers something of real value to the LGBT
communities in the city. It is an integral part of gay life here. BLAGSS offers an alternative
to the bar and club scene, for gay people who want to make new friends and get fit and
healthy at the same time. Having lived and worked in places without a large gay community,
I was amazed to see the range of activities available via BLAGSS and to learn that it has
been offering support for gay sports enthusiasts for the past ten years. No wonder it won
the Pink Paper’s 2008 Award for Best UK Sports Group.
BLAGSS brings out the best of what it means to be part of the LGBT communities.
BLAGSS members, as well as offering their own activities, make time to support others
in their work. Volunteers help to plan the route for Stonewall’s Equality Walk (as reported
elsewhere in this issue), hand out drinks at the Sussex Beacon Half Marathon, and work
hard to support our activities here at Pride in Brighton and Hove.
Pride in Brighton and Hove promotes equality and diversity, and advances education
to eliminate discrimination against the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT)
communities. It raises awareness of issues by promoting and staging a series of events
including Winter Pride and the annual free summer festival,ß and by making grants and
donations to other charitable and voluntary organisations. Our key objective is to develop
an environment in favour of LGBT equality by providing information, advice and support.
Through our grant scheme, we fund BLAGSS to offer its members free sporting classes
and equipment and to allow potential members to take part in taster sessions and other
events during both Winter and Summer Pride. We do this because we are like-minded
organisations. BLAGSS is an inclusive, friendly organization that encourages a diverse
membership and aims to provide a social environment where all opinions are valued and
respected.
I was going to suggest that you keep an eye out for the range of BLAGSS activities during
Pride, but a quick look at this issue tells me that you can’t miss them. BLAGSS will have
a very visible presence throughout the Pride festival. So look out for those fit and healthy
BLAGSS members on the Parade and make a point of visiting the stall in Preston Park.
You’ll get a warm welcome, meet some new people and who knows, maybe even take up a
sport you never thought would be for you.
What more, can I say, but have a great Pride and enjoy what BLAGSS has to offer. See
you all at the parade and park on Saturday 2 August 2008.
Lesley Burn,
Director, Pride in Brighton and Hove
www.blagss.org
Stonewall Barcelona 10k equality walk
11th – 13th July 2008
“
I had a
65% of lesbian and gay pupils
are bullied, simply because of
their sexual orientation.
fantastic time!!
If I had the
opportunity
to do it again
Help Stonewall to stamp out homophobic bullying across
next year...
fantastic fundraising event.
the country by raising money and joining us on this
“
I wouldn’ t
Registration includes return BA flights, two nights at
think twice.
Barcelona’s premiere gay hotel, Axel Hotel and the
Thanks!
city that legalised gay marriage in 2005 and has a vibrant
challenging 10k treasure hunt. Barcelona is a fantastic
and integrated gay culture. What better place to visit
2007 participant
whilst raising money for such a fantastic cause.
Support Stonewall... and join us on this fantastic fundraising weekend
For more information or to take part in this fantastic event, contact Michaela for an
information pack on 020
7593 1874, email [email protected]
or visit www.stonewall.org.uk
Summer 2008
Registered charity: 1101255 VAT number: 862906405
thenews&reviews
Grace’s Cricket Club
gay cricket club
IGLFA World Cup 2008 in London (referees at last year’s event)
BLAGSS have been contacted by the Graces
Cricket Club – the only gay cricket club in the
world. They have put forward the idea to have
a weekend of cricket in Brighton, with a game
followed by Bbarbecue and drinks with us over
the weekend.
They currently play around 25 games every
season in and around London – a mixture of
league games and friendlies. The home ground is
in Boston Manor Playing Fields in Brentford, and
they also play at Peter May Sports Centre, near
Walthamstow in London. (www.gaycricket.org.uk)
london 24-23 august 2008
The International Gay and Lesbian Football
Association World Championship is being held
in London in August.
However, the real buzz surrounding this
tournament is the full endorsement by the
English Football Association (FA). This support
is extremely important, not only in getting
logistical and technical support, but also by
granting instant credibility.
Perhaps even more critical is the catalyst
for the endorsement. The FA is taking a clear
stance on homophobia in football and they are
not being shy about it. “The FA is absolutely
committed to tackling all forms of discrimination
and harassment and to promote equality,” says
Simon Johnson, director of corporate affairs
for The FA. “The FA is leading the campaign to
tackle homophobic abuse in football in England
as part of the Football For All campaign.” More
information on the Football For All campaign
can be found at www.TheFA.com.
The organisation are looking for volunteers
in the following areas: Administration,
stewarding, translation, hosted-housing social
and cultural events, marketing and PR, and
outreach. You can be part of London2008 by
signing up to volunteer at the event by sending
an email to [email protected]
Barcelona Eurogames
viva la blagss
Image: Darrell Gale
A mixed group of sportsmen and women will
be representing BLAGSS and Brighton and
Hove this year in the Barcelona Eurogames.
BLAGSS are sending a team of seven people
representing: cycling, running, golf, and tennis,
and in addition, Out-to-Swim-South are sending
a team of 10 local swimmers.
Last year, members from BLAGSS won five
medals! Including Geoffrey, who won two gold
medals for 10-pin bowling. Good luck for this
year’s games.
Take Part 2008
28 June – 30 July 2008
BLAGSS West Sussex Walking Weekend
25 two-legged and five four-legged members of the BLAGSS walking group had a great
time on the West Sussex walking weekend at the end of April.
Thanks to Dave M and Andy M, the
BLAGSS Walking Group enjoyed three
wonderful walks, the highlight of which was
an eleven-mile ramble around the beautiful
Chichester harbour in glorious Spring
sunshine. The trip on the Itchenor ferry was
particularly memorable, and the Victoria
sponge in the Bosham tearoom tasted
especially good.
“We stayed at a B&B in the picturesque
village of Charlton, which nestles in the lee
of the South Downs,” said Tim, the Walking
co-ordinator. “Two delicious meals were
enjoyed on the Friday and Saturday nights,
and the weekend ended with spectacular
views towards the Isle of Wight in one
direction and the Surrey Hogsback in the
other from the top of Harting Down.
This summer Brighton and Hove Schools
Sports Partnerships,and the the City
Council and the local Primary Care Trust,
are beginning an annual three-week event
timed to coincide with the 2012 London
Olympics.
There are lots of team events and
tournaments for sports for which BLAGSS
has groups including swimming, badminton,
tennis, walking, sailing, golf, running and
volleyball. Let your Sports co-ordinators
know if you want to form a team so you can
take part using the BLAGSS web site.
Visit: www.takepartbrightonandhove.com
for further information.
www.blagss.org
thenews&reviews
The Justin Campaign
Brighton Bandits FC
BLAGSS at Stonewall’s Brighton Equality Walk
A record 350 people attended this year’s
Stonewall Brighton Equality Walk and
raised in excess of £32,000. Popular
music, celebrities and politics were all
represented as the walkers started off
from the Brighton Pavilion, for the 10km
walk. The colourful route was organised by
BLAGSS and took in sights such as Hove
Lawns and Sussex Square before ending
up at Legends Bar.
Speaking in the Pavilion Gardens, Ben
Summerskill, chief executive of Stonewall
said: “It is heartening to see hundreds of
supporters out in force, helping Stonewall
to up the anti on our ongoing campaign to
put an end to homophobic hate-crimes.”
This year’s Equality Walkers basked in
the sunshine as temperatures reached
73f (23c), and by the time the last of the
walkers reached Legends Bar, the venue
was overflowing with tired but excited
drinkers as Stonewall handed out the prizes
for top fundraisers. BLAGSS won the prize
for the group raising the most money, Tim
the Chair said: “It was a good day and and
as usual BLAGSS casme through!”
A new campaign to stamp out homophobia
in football has been launched. Justin is a
campaign against homophobia in football
that aims to vindicate the memory of
Justin Fashanu, the world’s first openly gay
professional footballer.”
“The FA, in conjunction with Stonewall
and the GFSN, are fighting anti-gay
prejudice on the terraces, looking to stamp
out the kind of chants that haunted Justin,”
says co-founder and Brighton Bandits FC
player Justin Hall. “But ten years after his
death, which the football world refused
to mark, there are still no openly gay
professional players or managers.”
The aim of the Justin Campaign is to get
the FA to observe Saturday 2 May 2009
as Justin Fashanu Day. They will be asking
Premier and Football League players to
support Justin Fashanu Day by wearing
black armbands and observing a minute’s
silence before football matches.
Scalextric Race
BLAGSS go racing (of sorts)!
Sussex Beacon Half Marathon
thanks blagss for its role
A number of BLAGSS members ran the
Sussex Beacon Half Marathon. The 13.2-mile
route took them along the seafront and into
North Laine and the Lanes. The weather was
fantastic and the crowds were great.
Summer 2008
As a group, BLAGSS raised £565 for the
Beacon thanks to many generous donations.
“A huge thank you to BLAGSS who manned
the watering-stations and those who helped
in the marshalling of the race,” said Lucy
Brandram, Sussex Beacon spokesperson.
If you are interested in joining the
BLAGSS running group, just turn up on
Saturday morning in Preston Park. Contact
the co-ordinator.
BLAGSS Scalextric evening was a huge
success with 20 BLAGSS members
attending Hove’s premier (well, in fact only)
Scalextric racing venue for what turned
out to be a sometimes hilarious bit of
competition!
A glass or two of wine helped some of us
to ‘lose it’ on the bends. Tommy ran off with
the prize for the fastest overall racer on four
tiny wheels (as well as on two legs!).
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www.blagss.org
blagsscolumnist
Come on in, the
water’s lovely!
BLAGSS is one of the UK’s most successful
sports groups. We know from our regular
member research what makes it so popular
Apart from the obvious attractions of the
sports, many people say that they join
BLAGSS because they are new to the
area or simply want to meet more gay and
lesbian friends. Brighton may be the gay
capital of Britain, but it can be surprisingly
difficult to meet new people, especially if
you don’t like going out on the scene.
But just as a Kemptown bar with
throbbing dance music can be intimidating
for many people, so can that first BLAGSS
event. Some members join up and hesitate
for months before actually participating,
because they feel nervous about making
the initial visit. What if everyone else is
fitter, faster and stronger than me? What
if I don’t like them, or they don’t like me?
What if I’m Billy No Mates?
We’ve all had that feeling at one time,
so we’ve put together some simple tips to
help you get the best out of BLAGSS, or
indeed any sports group you might join in
Brighton and Hove. As our swimming group
would say: ‘Come on in, the water’s lovely!’
Be brave
Be brave and come along to that first meeting.
Follow the Nike maxim and ‘just do it’. You
can register your sporting preferences on the
website and will get a welcome email from
the sports co-ordinator. Contact them and let
them know you’re coming, so they can look
out for you. When you get there, have some
simple small talk ready. Obvious questions are
a good place to start. Who’s the co-ordinator?
Where’s the changing room? What’s the
format for the session?
Be patient
BLAGSS prides itself in being friendly, but be
prepared to stick with it for a few sessions
before you really get to know people. Be
prepared to tolerate a bit of uncertainty for a
while. You may be shy, and some of the other
members may be too. And sometimes what
looks like a close-knit group may actually be
made up of people who’ve only been for a
couple of sessions themselves. Make an effort
Summer 2008
Be tolerant
“Be brave and come
along to that first
meeting. Follow the Nike
maxim and ‘just do it’”
to get to know people as well as expecting
others to get to know you. Again, a bit of preprepared small talk can work wonders. Find
out how long people have been playing their
sports or where they live. Join in the informal
stuff like staying behind for a drink or offering
someone a lift home.
Be flexible
BLAGSS has lots of sports groups and joining
is a chance to try new activities. If you don’t
feel comfortable in one sports group, don‘t
give up, just try another. It may be that it suits
your ability level better or the people are more
your type. New sports are being added all
the time. For example, in the last year we’ve
added sailing, beach volleyball and tai chi. And
remember that there are lots of social events
such as barbeques, parties, tournaments
and sports days where you can meet people
in other sports groups, even if you’re not
interested in that particular sport itself.
People have high expectations when they
join BLAGSS and we pride ourselves on our
friendly ethos and our range of sporting
opportunities. But at the end of the day, we’re
not a private company with paid staff. So don’t
grumble if everything isn’t perfect and ‘they’
haven’t done what you expected. There is no
‘they’ – we’re just a bunch of enthusiastic
people giving our time for free to have some
fun and make life better for gay and lesbian
sporting enthusiasts.
Be involved
One of the best ways to get to know people in
BLAGSS is to get involved yourself. BLAGSS is
run entirely on voluntary effort and we have
ambitious plans for the future. We can never
have enough people helping out. You could
help organise an activity such as leading a
cycle ride, or setting up a new sports group.
You could take part in the range of activities
that run during Pride week, or help to organise
a social event such as a barbecue.
Whatever your sporting interests, you’ll
also have a range of other skills that would
be invaluable to us. This magazine comes
to you courtesy of the free time of writers,
proofreaders and accountants among
others. Make a contribution of your time
and effort and you’ll soon find yourself in
demand. And, you’ll make BLAGSS even
better for the rest of us.
brightonpride
The theme for this year’s Pride In Brighton and Hove is Pride Around the World.
So there’s a huge amount of choices on offer to choose from. BLAGSS have
decided on Scotland and the theme: Highland Fling... a chance to toss the
caber and... wear a kilt!
Pride in Brighton and Hove
Voted best community group in GScene’s
Golden Handbag Awards 2008, Pride in
Brighton and Hove has fast become one of
the most popular free festivals in Europe.
Last year’s event attended by over
150,000 people resulted in over £7.5
million in revenue to the local coffers.
Although, sadly, this was not reflected in
the monies collected at Preston Park on
the festival day itself. Pride in Brighton and
Hove is a free event, but please donate as
much as you can to the official collectors in
the park, to help keep it a free event.
Another way to support Pride is to
become a member and it’s very reasonable.
Membership is just £15 a year, reduced
to £7.50 for unwaged, students and over
60s. For this, you get entry on the day to
the members’ enclosure, or alternatively
you can pay £25 on the day. As the Pride
website says, “It’s worth it just for the posh
toilets”. And we all know about queuing for
toilets…
Pride in Brighton and Hove has awarded
BLAGSS a grant of £500 to run free
10 sports classes throughout the Pride week
for members and people interested in
becoming members. “We’re very grateful to
Pride in Brighton and Hove for its continued
generous support,” said Tim Rose, Chair
of BLAGSS. “It allow us to offer lots of free
and fun sporting activities to gay people
throughout the city and to spread the word
that joining BLAGSS offers a great chance to
make friends and get fit.”
Following on from last year’s success
at Pride, BLAGSS have once again entered
a float and marquee for this year’s event.
BLAGSS are going to have a walking
tableau, with members carrying cabers,
hammers, bagpipes etc. There will also
be a marquee in the park to attract new
members and to act as a meeting point for
current members.
“Last year’s Pride was the best ever for
BLAGSS,” said Tim. “We had an amazing
float, loads of members helped out on the
day and over 45 new members signed up.”
If you are interested in attending any of
the workshops, for creating the BLAGSS
float, they are going to be held at Same
Sky (The Old Post Office, 1 College Road,
Brighton, BN2 1JA) and will run from 16
June, evenings (time to be determined) and
weekends (2pm-7pm), You don’t have to
commit to attending all the workshops, just
give what time you can!
All in all a great week of festivities that
culminates in the biggest party of the year
that the city hosts. BLAGSS wishes all its
members, friends and soon-to-be members a
fab Pride and don’t forget you can get a taster
of BLAGSS at the following Pride events:
Summer Pride Walk
One of the main highlights for BLAGSS
this year is the Summer Pride Walk and
Picnic on Sunday 27 July. Meeting at
the corner of Eastern Road and Walpole
Road, Kemp Town at 11am. The walk
will take in a stretching five miles – up
to the race course, across the Downs to
Rottingdean. Pause for a picnic lunch
then return via the Undercliff Path and
Volks Railway into Brighton. This is a
www.blagss.org
brightonpride
BLAGSS had 32 new
members in May this year,
bringing the total number
of members to 492. Anyone
lucky enough to become the
500th member can expect a
big surprise.
free event, although to travel on Volks
Railway the cost is £2. Contact Tim the
co-ordinator if you want to get involved at
[email protected] 0845 65 BLAGS.
Pride Golf Challenge
Another very popular and well attended
event is the BLAGSS and GIGS Pride Golf
Challenge on Wednesday 30 July. The
Challenge takes place at Pycombe and
Waterhall golf courses at 1pm and 9pm.
The competitions are for players with
CONGU handicaps; players with experience
but no handicap, six holes for new
golfers and a taster lesson for beginners
– something to suit all abilities. The prices
for the events are as follows: 18-hole
competition £30. Six hole competition £15,
Taster session: £10 all include supper,
prizes etc. Contact the co-ordinator, Helen,
at [email protected] or 0845 65 BLAGS.
Other Pride Events
Of course there’s a lot more going on in
Pride Week than the two afore mentioned.
Summer 2008
n If you would like to take up badminton,
then there’s a open coaching session for
those who would like to have a go. It’s a free
event and takes place between 10am and
12 noon on Saturday 26 July in the Sports
Hall at Brighton Girl’s School.
n There is a Badminton Open Session on
Tuesday 29 July at 7pm-9pm in the Sports
Hall at Brighton Girl’s School. Racquets and
shuttle cocks provided. Again, this is a free
event. Contact the co-ordinators, Ian or Natalie
at [email protected] or 0845 65 BLAGS.
n If running is your thing, then why not get
involved in the Running Group? Go along
and try some warm-ups, stretching, running
and warm-down! The Pride running event
takes place on Saturday 26 July meeting up
by the Clock Tower in Preston Park, London
Road at 10.30am for 11am run. It’s a free
event. Contact the co-ordinator s Graham
or Royston at running @blagss.org or 0845
65 BLAGS.
n There is an ‘Open Tennis Session’ for all
abilities (bring your own racket) at Hove Park
Courts on Saturday 27 July at 11am and
5pm. Contact the co-ordinators: Jeff, Matt
or Raymond at [email protected] or 0845
65 BLAGS. Just turn up and look for the
BLAGSS t-shirts.
n Rollerblading is a lot of fun and BLAGSS
members certainly turn out in force for this
sport. Just turn up on Tuesday 29 July at the
Peace Statue in Hove Lawns at 7pm and
spend 90 minutes rollerblading along the
promenade with other BLAGSS members.
Bring your own rollerblades. Contact the coordinators’ Andy or Mark at rollerblading@
blagss.org or 0845 65 BLAGS.
Finally, Tim the Chair would like to wish
all BLAGSS members a happy Pride and
looks forward to seeing as many members
as possible on the parade and in the park.
“We know one of the main attractions of
BLAGSS is that it offers an alternative
to the bar and club scene for gay people
of all ages, and from all walks of life,”
says Tim. “A strong presence at Pride is
important to us because we get a chance
to reach out to gay people who want
something different.”
11
Most of us think that tackling climate change is about reducing our carbon footprint. But it doesn’t
stop there – we also need to prepare for some of the climate changes that we can’t stop.
time for a
new routine
It’s not as scary as it sounds, and for World Environment Day
2008 the Environment Agency is letting people know how they
can make the first step.
Everyone’s talking about the need to reduce our carbon
footprint and cut greenhouse gas emissions. That’s great
news for the health of our planet, but we still need to think
about preparing for some of the climate changes we can’t
stop. It’s what those in the know call ‘adaptation’, and for
World Environment Day on June 5th the Environment Agency
is helping people do just that.
Stand Up To Climate Change is the theme for 2008.
We’re asking people to choose one thing that they’ll do to
get ready for climate change. The activities range from being
prepared for flooding and saving water, to helping wildlife and
biodiversity. Or you might chose to stay safe in severe weather,
or train as an emergency volunteer.
“We want to get people thinking about how we can prepare
for and cope with the effects of climate change. We hear daily
how our climate is threatened and becoming more extreme
– but there are steps we can all take to make us more resilient
and able to cope,” said the Environment Agency’s World
Environment Day Campaign Manager, Greg Brina.
But the campaign is not suggesting adaptation is the only
answer to climate change. It has close ties to ACT ON CO2,
which is fast becoming the most established and recognised
carbon reduction campaign in the UK.
Greg is quick to stress this is not a choice of one over
the other, “There’s a growing myth that we have to choose
between stabilising our climate through reducing emissions
or, if we don’t do that, learning to adapt to the consequences.
That’s simply not the case, we need to be doing both.”
The good news on carbon reduction is that more and
more people are getting stuck in – governments are acting,
householders are listening to advice on how to save energy
and reduce CO2 and businesses are showing all sorts of
initiatives to reduce their environmental impact.
Greg continued, “the time is right to start making
changes so we can adapt. The summer floods of 2007
- the drought of 2006 – are all pointers to what most
scientists agree will be characteristic of our future climate.
www.environment-agency.gov.uk/jobs
There’s lots of things people can do and that’s what we’re
helping to show them.”
For example, these days you can check whether you’re
at risk from flooding by entering your postcode online. If
you are then you can sign-up to Floodline Warnings Direct
and the Environment Agency will call you to warn you when
there’s a risk of flooding – giving you precious extra time to
prepare.
Or if wildlife is something you care about then there’s
plenty you could be doing to help species threatened by
changes in climate. Choice of design and species in a
garden can have a huge affect on habitats and help protect
threatened species. Make little changes to your routine,
like drying your washing outside and watering your plants
with a watering can rather than a hosepipe
“We want to get people thinking
about how we can prepare for and
cope with the effects of climate
change. We hear daily how our
climate is threatened and becoming
more extreme – but there are steps
we can all take to make us more
resilient and able to cope,”
We will be at Brighton Pride on Saturday 2nd August
with our Stand Up To Climate Change trailer. Come along
and visit us and choose the one thing that you will do to
get ready for climate change. The first 400 people to come
and sign up will get one our environmentally friendly World
Environment Day tote bags.
To find out more about how you can Stand up to Climate
change visit the Environment Agency website at www.
environment-agency.gov.uk/wed
blagsscolumnist
Get fit for
summer
If you’ve picked up this magazine, you probably
have at least a passing interest in getting fit this
summer. But how do you turn that into reality?
Should you be running, swimming, lifting
weights, doing yoga? The amount of
information in the media about health, nutrition
and exercise can be overwhelming and even
contradictory. Sometimes it feels easier to just
carry on being unfit.
You know how the saying goes? ‘If
you do what you always done, you get what
you’ve always had’. Things can be different. Try
these simple approaches to make this summer
the one when you finally got fit and healthy.
Set positive goals
Mix it up
“Make your goals
emphatic and phrase
them as though
they are already
‘I want to stop being a couch potato and try
to lose 10 pounds’ doesn’t sound nearly as
good as ‘I’m active at least three times a
week, I eat healthily and I can fit into those
trousers I bought last summer’. Make your
goals emphatic and phrase them as though
they are already happening. And once you’ve
got those positive goals sorted in your head
– tell other people. There’s no point keeping
them secret, and by telling your friends and
family about the new you, you’re much more
likely to make them happen.
resolve will quickly drain away. Look at the
list of activities that BLAGSS offers and see
what appeals. And if you don’t already know
what sports you love, try something new and
come along to the taster sessions in the run
up to Pride to see what really gets you going.
Take one small step
Joining a gym?
A decision doesn’t mean anything until you
take action. So, when you’ve finished reading
this article, take one first small step, even
if it’s only walking briskly round the block
or getting out that bike in the shed and
cycling to the shops. Ultra distance runner
Stu Mittleman is famous for running across
America. Asked how he did it, he replied: I
never ran a thousand miles. I couldn’t do
that. I ran a mile a thousand times’.
Enjoy yourself
The word ‘ought’ should be banished from
any discussion on exercise. Unless you enjoy
doing something, you won’t keep on doing it.
Getting fit might involve a bit of discomfort
but you can’t run very far, or score many
goals without a bit of hard work at the
beginning. But if you continually approach
your exercise with a sense of dread, your
14 Signing up for gym membership is the
easiest thing in the world, but think before
you spend that hard-earned cash. Do you
actually like gym-based exercise? Are you
going to make enough visits to justify the
joining fee, the monthly outlay and any
‘lock-in’ notice period? Your money may
be better spent on some sessions with a
personal trainer, joining BLAGSS or paying
for a series of exercise classes.
Do it with other people
Most people benefit from exercising with
others, whether in a class, a team or a
group activity like BLAGSS. It helps to
motivate you and widens your social life.
And if you know you can be a bit lazy, what
better way of making sure you have to be
there than offering someone else a lift or
arranging to meet them at the group?
The best exercise combines a mixture
of aerobic activity, strength training and
flexibility. Doing too much of one thing can
result in injury from repetitive movement,
so aim to vary your routine and add in new
elements from time to time. If swimming is
your thing, experiment with a weekly weights
class. If you’re a gym bunny, think about
joining a cycling group.
Diets don’t work
Mountains of research shows that diets
simply don’t deliver on their promises in the
long term. Lots of people lose weight only
to put more back on when they stop dieting.
The reason is simple – if you starve your
body, all it learns is how to store fat more
efficiently next time round. Losing weight
is a simple equation – you need to burn
more calories than you consume. For most
people, a moderate amount of strenuous
exercise, coupled with an eating plan that
cuts out junk food and too much alcohol,
and includes vegetables, brown grains and
some good-protein, will do the trick.
Don’t give up
A bad week is a bad week, nothing more.
We all have moments where we don’t
have time to exercise, or we eat too many
pies. The secret is to see it as a small slip
from the path, rather than as the path
disappearing over the side of a cliff. Go
back to that point about actions speaking
louder than words. Take one small symbolic
step back on the road to fitness, even if it’s
just walking round the block. And put down
that pie immediately!
www.blagss.org
At Griffith Smith Farrington Webb
we offer a caring and professional
service to all of our clients.
OUR FIRM’S SERVICES INCLUDE:
●
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Pre-Civil Partnership Agreements
Divorce & Financial Settlements
Children Issues
Inheritance Tax Planning
Wills
Trusts
Discrimination
Housing Sales & Purchases
Jo O’Sullivan and Phil Warford specialise in giving
bespoke advice to our lesbian and gay clients.
For more information please contact us at:
E [email protected]
T 01273 384039
e [email protected]
T 01273 384047
www.gsfwsolicitors.co.uk
Summer 2008
15
The Beautiful Game
BLAGSS football group set up by Leonie Moore the co-ordinator has been going strong now for
over a year. GO BLAGSS caught up with her on a perfect summer’s evening to get the low-down
“Meet half way up, by a hut and bench on
the right hand side, in Preston Park (the side
nearest the tennis courts). Any problems
finding us, give me a bell on my mobile,”
says the BLAGSS website. Simple, basic but
accurate instructions that will lead you to the
football training sessions that BLAGSS has
on offer every week throughout the year.
Mixed team
Almost all towns and villages in the UK have
football clubs that operate at varying levels,
from social to professional. In addition,
leagues are set up for the full game and
five-a-side, and are organised through
sports and social clubs, health clubs, sports
centres, schools and even pubs.
“The BLAGSS football group has been
going just over a year,” says Leonie. “It’s a
mixed team but we get a lot more women
playing than men, even though guys are
welcome. The best thing about the football
group is that it’s really good fun and no-one
takes it too seriously. It’s a really good form
of exercise.
“Football is a multiple sprint sport
requiring players to spend some of their
time sprinting and other times running fast
or slowly, walking or even standing still.
Varying degrees of fitness are required,
depending on the player’s position in the
team, the amount of time spent on the field
and the level at which the game is played,
16 but a full 90-minute match, for example,
demands high levels of aerobic fitness.”
Becoming active
Leonie should know, she’s been a BLAGSS
member for some time and believes that
sports activities such as football and tennis
are really good for your mental and physical
health. And the evidence is that kicking a
ball around a football pitch for an hour or so
can help people of all ages to improve their
health and well-being by becoming active at
a moderate-intensity on a regular basis.
Football can have positive effects on your
mental health as well as physical health.
Regular exercise has been shown to lower
perceived stress and improve mood and
self-esteem. The good news is that the
benefits of regularly playing football will
occur regardless of whether you smoke,
drink or eat the wrong foods.
Stay motivated
When you begin an exercise programme
your motivation may be high, but as time
goes on, it can be difficult to maintain this
routine. Playing a team sport like football is
an excellent way to stay motivated as there
are other people there to support you and
keep you going. And if it’s weight loss that
you may be concerned about – the average
person weighing 70 kg can expect to burn
off in excess of 545 K cals per hour.
“Each session we get into teams; have a
not too serious game. Expect to run about
a lot, get quite sweaty and have a laugh,”
says Leonie. “There’s a chance you might
get knocked about a little, but not a lot.
Some people wear shin pads as football is a
contact sport.
“All you need to bring along for a session
is appropriate items of clothing such
as shorts and loose-fitting T-shirts. Also
advisable is a water bottle. Trainers are OK,
but football boots are better on grass, as
you slip less and you can get a decent pair
for around £10-£15.”
Sponsorship required
BLAGSS football is currently looking for a
sponsor who can support the group and
perhaps raise funds for getting the team
further on their feet. “It’s a possibility
that we will get sponsorship and maybe
play some proper matches,” says Leonie.
“Maybe enter a league or just play some
one-off games against other teams. It would
be great to play a game against the Brighton
Bandits team.
“If anyone out there would like to sponsor
us, please get in touch. We have done some
research on costings and it’s really not that
much at all.”
Please visit: www.blagss.org for further
information about BLAGSS football
www.blagss.org
The Big Brighton Pride
Golf Challenge
Wedneday 30 July 2008
4 Events happening throughout the day
1.
Brighton Pride Open Golf Championship
2.
Brighton Pride Rainbow Challenge
3.
Brighton Pride 6 Hole Challenge
4.
Brighton Pride Golf Clinic
A Lesbian-Gay golf tournament in Brighton. A medal competition
played over 18 holes at Pyecombe Golf Course, Brighton. A 27
handicap certificate is required. £35 entrance fee.
A Lesbian-Gay golf tournament in Brighton. A Stableford
competition played over 18 holes at Waterhall Golf Course,
Brighton. A handicap certificate is required. £25 entrance fee.
This is a mini-golf challenge for those beginners who have not yet
managed 18 holes. £18 entrance fee.
There will be a golf clinic for beginners between 2pm and 5pm.
£12 entrance fee.
The registration fee incudes golf, supper and prizes.
For further information and to register contact: Helen ◆ email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0845 65 BLAGS ◆ Mobile: 07855 232 977
THIS COMPETITION IS A MUST FOR EVERY LESBIAN-GAY GOLFER
Funded by Brighton and Hove Pride and Brighton and Hove City Council
Summer 2008
17
blagssactivities
badminton
charge for each session, normally £2.
“Thanks to securing some funding from
Brighton Council, BLAGSS Badminton were
able to offer subsidised coaching to new
and old members of our Badminton Group,”
says Rob, the co-ordinator. “About 16 of the
BLAGSS Badminton players took part in a
six-week coaching course. During this time,
they learned some basic serves and shots
and moved on to some tactical play.
“Coaching was only possible with the
help of the Council, organised by Sandra
and expert advice from Chris the coach, so
a big thank-you to all three.”
We meet twice a week
Tuesday 8-10pm/Thursday 8-10pm
We currently meet twice a week
n Tuesdays 8pm-10pm. This session caters
for all players but the courts are designated
between advanced players and all-comers to
allow a bit more competition. Newcomers to
BLAGSS are welcome at this session. If you
haven’t played for a while we, recommend
that you practise first before attending.
n Thursdays, 8pm-10pm. Anyone is
The BLAGSS Badminton Group is a mixedability social group. All interested badminton
players are welcome to come along but
please contact the sports co-ordinator, Rob,
before coming. We provide all the facilities,
but please bring your own racquet and wear
non-marking indoor soles. There is a small
Future tournament for 2008
n 22-25 August 2008 - London – Goslings
Sports Club. This tournament is over four
days and has singles and doubles that play
on the Saturday and Sunday.
If you’re interested in taking part, please
contact the sport co-ordinator below. Most
tournaments follow a standard three day
pattern. Registration on the Friday evening,
play on the Saturday followed by a party and
then a farewell brunch on the Sunday.
welcome as long as they have picked up
a badminton racquet at some point in
their lives. We play mixed and matched
doubles in a friendly, social environment.
Thursdays can be busy, so please contact
the sports co-ordinator before attending
for the first time.
Images: Rob Collins
is that they represent a whole range of
cyclists,” says Sandra. “From fair-weather
casual cyclists to hardened commuters who
brave all weathers, cycle path lovers, road
riders and off-road trails, we all share one
thing in common – we love cycling!”
If you’re an inexperienced cyclist then
make sure you choose the right ride for your
level of fitness, start with the short or social
rides if you are not sure.
n Off-Road: For those with off-road
bicycles who want to experience some
off-roading. Differing in lengths, exploring
off-road trails around Sussex, packed or pub
lunch where appropriate. Dates TBC.
n Road Rides: Usually between 25-35
miles on cycle routes or unclassified roads
where possible. Leisurely pace, with a pub
lunch/stop.
n Short Social Rides: New for 2008!
These will be a series of short morning
rides, less than 10 miles, easy paced with a
cake/ice cream stop assured. 21 June and
30 July.
n Capital to Coast Ride: If you think
you’re up for it, why not join our BLAGSS
team on the Capital To Coast Ride? (www.
capitaltocoast.org.uk) It’s a 30-or 60-mile
bike ride on 13 July. Contact the coordinator for further information.
Road Rides
badminton contact
Co-ordinator: Rob
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
cycling
Images: Sandra Hounsham
The BLAGSS Cycling Group
three rides every month
Now that the summer weather is upon us,
why not get on your bike and out there?
Sandra the cycling co-ordinator welcomes
anyone, who wants to join in and, have fun!
“The best thing about the Cycling Group
18 on sundays: 13 july and 24 august
2008 with pub lunch!
cycling contact
Co-ordinator: Sandra.
Fast Rides: Darrell, Off Road: Richard
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
www.blagss.org
blagssactivities
Combining, Style, Comfort, Art, food And
impeCCAble ServiCe At AffordAble priCeS
VIV WOODCOCK
V
Executive Coach and Facilitator
Viv is a specialist in
executive coaching and
organisational development.
Viv trains mentors, trainers,
facilitators and supervises
coaches.
NEW STEINE HOTEL AND BISTRO
Friday & Saturday: 2 course £14.50, 3 course £16.50
Sunday - Thursday: 2 course £10.50, 3 course £12.50
Conference, Event and Private Dining Facilities are now available.
We welcome BLAGSS members and friends.
Located at: 10 & 11 New Steine, Brighton BN2 1PB
Tel: 01273 695415 Fax: 01273 622663 www. newsteinehotel.com
Viv supports Blagss in the
great work that they do.
For information contact:
[email protected]
or call 07855 232977
CFCIPD
MILM
Accredited Coach
Hotel reception open 24 hours, 7 days a week. French restaurant open 7 days a week inclusive 6pm to 10pm for last orders.
deepbreath
Practical change, lasting results
Bar open 12-2 am.
Food served Weds thru Sunday.
Bed & Breakfast available.
Meeting and function rooms
available for parties and
Civil ceremonies receptions.
A little extra support is all it takes to make
major changes to your health and fitness
Contact Karen on 07811 342193
www.deep-breath.co.uk
Personal training, life coaching
Summer 2008
19
blagssactivities
darts
football
Mixed Darts Team
Contact co-ordinator for details
The Darts Group is inactive at present. If
you wish to get a team set up or a venue
to start playing in then contact the darts
co-ordinator below. Why not set up your own
team? All standards of players are welcome
to get involved. It’s very sociable.
darts contact
email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
sky dive
The SuSSex Beacon
is looking for adventurous people who would
like to combine their love of adrenaline with
fundraising. Have you always wanted to sky dive
or parachute jump? Then this is for you - fulfil an
ambition and support the Sussex Beacon!
There are three types of jump available
10,000fT freefall ParachuTe JumP
This jump is technically a sky dive - BUT its a
tandem jump so you’ll be strapped to an instructor
at all times. It’s the only way you can jump from
this height without becoming a freefall parachutist.
STaTic line ParachuTe JumP
A solo jump from up to 3,000ft - its the first step to
becoming a qualified skydiver!
acceleraTed freefall - Solo Skydive
The big one - sky diving solo from 10,000ft!
Please contact us for the next available jump dates.
Book on-line at: www.sussexbeacon.org.uk
20 Leonie (left) and BLAGSS footballers
Mixed Friendly Football Team
Sunday evenings - preston park
The BLAGSS Football Group are a mixed
friendly group and play football each Sunday
evening. In summer we play at Preston Park
on Sunday evenings at 7pm. Please arrive
10-15 minutes early so we start promptly.
“It’s a mixed team but we tend to get a lot
more women players than men, even though
guys are welcome,” says Leonie, the BLAGSS
Football co-ordinator. “In the summer months
we get between 10-18 players.”
The emphasis is on not taking the game
too seriously,” says Leonie. “And it’s definitely
about having a fun time and really good
exercise. Expect to run around a lot, get quiet
sweaty and have a laugh.
“You can take part if you’ve never done it
before. If you get tired, go in the goal for 10
minutes, there’s no pressure to run around –
you can take it as easy as you like. After doing
it for three or four weeks, you’ll be surprised at
how your fitness levels will improve.”
n Football Buddy: If you have any
reservations, you can contact Leonie who
is willing to meet you, before the game,
introduce you to the team and give help and
advice. She points out: “Every other week we
have a short football training session before
starting the game. The aim being to focus on
some skills to then use in the game.”
football contact
Co-ordinator: Leonie
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
www.blagss.org
blagssactivities
golf
gym
Why not get involved in the Brighton Pride Golf Challenge?
Train with a BLAGSS member
if you would like to offer to host sessions contact the co-ordinator
Golf is a great game that combines skill,
fitness, beautiful surroundings and great
socialising. The Golf Group aims to support
anyone who wishes to play in a supportive
and encouraging environment.
“The Golf Group hosts a number of
different types of sessions, including
rounds of 18- and 9-hole golf sessions on
a local driving range, tournaments and
coaching lessons,” says Greg, one of the
golf co-ordinators.
Since the launch of BLAGSS Golf, the
group have hosted two golf tournaments
in conjunction with Brighton Pride and
attended by other LGBT golf groups from
across the UK.
“For the coming summer months, we will
be continuing our programme of regular
practice sessions as well as rounds of
9- and 18-hole golf,” says Helen, the other
BLAGSS Golf co-ordinator. “The 9-hole golf
is particularly well suited for beginners, and
we’ll be encouraging more people to take
up the sport.”
sessions at other courses or are just looking
for people to play off-schedule or to round
out your foursomes, please register your
interest online. Hosting members will contact
you directly with appropriate opportunities to
play. If you’d like to help organise sessions,
please email Helen or Greg.
Winter Pride Golf Challenge
Helen Woodcock-Downey and Greg Harris
organised the golfers on Sunday 10
February this year. The Blagss Winter Pride
Golf Challenge was played in glorious
sunshine on the downs at Brighton. 17
golfers took part
in thisGolf
first Winter Pride
Brighton
Pride
Golf Event at Waterhall Golf Course.
The
men’s Winner was Alistair Crichton,
Championship
of Irons Golf Society, with a stableford score
2007in the winter conditions!
of 41 – amazing
The women’s winner was Caron Morton,
of GIGS Golf Society, with a stableford score
of 37, hotly contested by Clarke Hayes who
came a close second with a score of 36
The special 9-hole winner for competition
for improvers was Viv Woodcock-Downey, of
n 18-Hole Golf: Now that we’ve had lots of
BLAGSS, with a score of 17.
practice, it’s time to hit the course! We are
See page 10 and 11 in this issue of GO
planning to play on alternating Saturdays and BLAGSS for details of this year’s Summer
Sundays, from midday – or possibly earlier
Pride Golf Challenge. Everyone is welcome
– although more expensive (schedule to
to get involved.
be announced), it will be at Waterhall Golf
Club. Costs are £18 per round, afternoon tee
times. Please register your interest online.
golf contact
Co-ordinators: Helen or Greg
n Extra Golf Rounds: Many of our
Email: [email protected]
members regularly play or would like to
Phone: 0845 65 blags
play more often. If you’d like to offer to host
Summer 2008
contact other members online
Brighton and Hove has a number of gyms
spread out across the city. There’s no
official BLAGSS gym team, but there is a
section on the BLAGSS website where you
can contact other members and meet a gym
buddy for training sessions. Contact Gareth
the co-ordinator for more details.
gym contact
Co-ordinator: Gareth
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
THE JOG SHOP was established in 1986 to
service the needs of all runners and athletes in the
Sussex area. The staff have a wealth of experience
of running and of working with running shoes.
10% OFF TO
BLAGSS MEMBERS
We carry a wide range of products and training shoes
from all the major brands including Adidas, Asics,
Brooks, Etonic, Hind, Fila, Mizuno, New Balance,
Nike, Polar, Puma, Reebok, Saucony and Walsh.
THE JOG SHOP
39b George St, Brighton, BN2 1RJ
Tel. (01273) 675717
Email: [email protected]
21
blagssactivities
martial arts
rollerblading
Self Defence classes
sunday 29 June at 4-6pm
The BLAGSS Martial Arts group was newly
formed this year. The BLAGSS website focuses
on information about different forms of
martial arts and provides information about
local gay friendly clubs and events.
Sylvia has helped to form the BLAGSS Tai
Chi group and we are now holding regular
sessions of Yang style Tai Chi with Ghislaine in
Kemp Town. Tai Chi co-ordinator: Sylvia taichi@
blagss.org
The Ishigaki Ju-jitsu club has offered to run
a series of self defence classes for BLAGSS
members. The first of these sessions will take
place on Sunday, 29 June from 4pm to 6pm
at LA Fitness in North Street. These classes
are free to BLAGSS members.
martial arts contact
co-ordinators: Andi and Sensie
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 BLAGS
Rollerblading Group: Wave your hands in the air like you just don’t care...
There are some good runs along Hove, Eastbourne and Worthing
The Rollerblading Group meets in summer,
when the weather is good. Last year, the
group had a number of runs along Hove
seafront, Eastbourne and Worthing. “For our
next season, we are looking at organising
lessons through Sk8School in Eastbourne,”
says Andy, one of the BLAGSS co-ordinators.
“They should be able to organise some
group lessons in Brighton for us and provide
skate hire for those of you without wheels.
We have been allocated part of the BLAGSS
sport grant for lessons.”
To skate with BLAGSS, you will need your
own pair of rollerblades, which should be in
good condition. You must also wear knee pads
and wrist guards. We also recommend elbow
pads and a helmet, a cycle helmet is ideal.
Padded shorts can prove invaluable if you are
not an experienced skater.
rollerblading contact
Co-ordinators: Andy and Mark
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
running
The Running Group - Mixed
Abilities
join one of the many events
throughout the year
BLAGSS running co-ordinator Roy Haines
22 the Edinburgh Marathon, Sussex Beacon Half
Marathon and the Great North Run.
“The main point we say to anyone who wants
to get involved in running is to check with their
GP and, if you are keen about running, invest in
a decent pair of running shoes to help prevent
joint injuries,” says Tommy, the other running
co-ordinator. “If you already play other sports,
then running should be fairly easy to start.”
n Running Group Sessions: Five-mile runs
up onto the Downs above Stanmer and then
along the sea front.
“Our main session is on Saturday mornings in n Wednesday evenings: We meet at 7pm
Preston Park. We meet at 10.30am just down at The Meeting Point Cafe on the seafront, by
from the Clock Tower, and the session usually
the Peace Statue. These runs are designed to
lasts between 60-75 minutes,” says Graham,
allow you to run at your own pace.
one of the group’s co-ordinators. “We do a
n Saturday mornings: We meet in Preston
mixture of laps around the park – usually three Park at 10.30am and finish the sessions at
or four over the session, and intersperse these the Preston Park Cafe for cake and tea.
with various circuit training exercises while
enjoying the fresh air. Sometimes we focus on
sprint work and during the summer months.
running contact
we also have runs on the Downs above
Co-ordinators: Graham and Tommy
Stanmer and along the seafront.”
email: [email protected]
BLAGSS Running Group have also competed
Phone: 0845 65 blags
in several races around the country, including
www.blagss.org
blagssactivities
STARRING
LES DENNIS &
MEL GIEDROYC
Box Office
Mon 28 July Sat 2 August
Summer 2008
08700 606 650 (bkg fee)
Groups Hotline 08700 606 617
www.theambassadors.com/theatreroyal
23
blagssactivities
squash
sailing
New Sailing Group and Course (Limited to 12 Places)
A five-Day autumn Dinghy course will begin in September
BEGINNERS (RYA LEVEL 1 and 2)
This is a five-day dinghy sailing course,
over five consecutive Saturdays. At the end
of the course the successful sailor will be
safety conscious, have a basic knowledge of
sailing and be capable of sailing without an
instructor in light winds.
The school uses Topper Sport 14s for
its dinghy training and these stable, roomy
boats have proved to very popular with
newcomers to sailing. Students may choose
after a few weeks to sail single-handed in
Laser Picos.
The syllabus will include helming
(steering) and crewing a dinghy on all points
of sailing, rigging, launching and recovery,
approaching jetties up and down wind,
recovering a person from the water, and
what to do in case someone capsizes.
Bring a packed lunch, tea and coffee is
supplied. Always bring a complete change
of clothing and a towel, along with a wet
suit or dry suit and a wind and water proof
outer layer and flat shoes that don’t mind
getting wet.
sailing contact
Co-ordinator: Kelly
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
The BLAGSS Squash Group is a mixed ability
group and all members are welcome. They
meet every Tuesday evening at Withdean
Stadium. Contact Stuart, the co-ordinator, if
you plan to attend for the first time.
They meet from 8-9.20pm. Court fees are
£4 per person. You’ll need to bring your own
equipment and suitable shoes. All levels
welcome on these nights.
squash contact
Co-ordinator: Stuart
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
skiing
“Our annual skiing trip to a European
(usually French) resort started in 2005, with
only nine of us – in 2009 there will be 20 of
us going,” says David, the skiing co-ordinator.
“We hire a chalet to ourselves, so have a nice
‘family’ atmosphere. Because the chalets
have live-in staff, we also get to live in relative
comfort for a week with meals, etc. laid on.
“Some of the group are experienced
skiers while others are more ‘intermediate’.
Nevertheless, we always manage to go
skiing together at some point in the holiday.
And if not? Then rendezvous at a mountian
restaurant for lunch!”
The skiing group gets booked up very
early, so check for availability.
Skiing Group
blagss organises an annual
skiing trip to europe
24 Skiing is an established group of BLAGSS
members that welcomes others on an annual
trip to Europe. Members who would like to
go next year should ensure they have ticked
skiing in their details on BLAGSS website.
skiing contact
Co-ordinator: David
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
www.blagss.org
blagssactivities
swimming
tennis
Swimming Groups for all Abilities
check out the various groups for one that suits you
Swimming is arguably the only sport that
provides opportunities for people of all
ages and abilities to participate at all levels.
Whether it’s recreational, acquiring a life
skill, swimming regularly to maintain health
and fitness, enjoying a variety of waterbased activities safely, achieving personal
goals, or winning medals.
“After a couple of lengths warm-up, the
main session involves a mixture of working
on the technique of the various strokes
(mainly front-crawl and breast stroke), mixed
in with some stamina work,” says Elaine one
of the BLAGSS co-ordinators for swimming.
“People do as much as they feel able to
manage and there is always some time to
gossip down the shallow end! We normally
finish with a game then warm-down.”
Although the Swimming Group is very
supportive of people who come to their
meets, the emphasis is not on teaching
people to swim. “The sessions are designed
to enable people to improve their swimming,
whatever their level of fitness,” says Paul,
the other BLAGSS swimming co-ordinator.
“After each session the group go to a local
pub for a drink or, a bite to eat – so it’s a
very social affair.”
n Monday Sessions: Typically we have
between 10 and 16 members turning
up, where we cater for all ability levels by
Summer 2008
providing a choice of free swimming or a
more structured work out.
Main Session, from 7.15-8.05pm at: St.
Luke’s Pool, St. Luke’s Terrace, Brighton.
BN2 9ZE. Telephone: 01273 602385. We
meet outside at 7.10pm sharp. £4 per head.
n Summer Lidos: There are a number
of outdoor lidos around the Brighton area.
If there is enough interest, a group visit
could be organised, for relaxed recreational
swimming and sun bathing.
n Summer Sea Swims: We go for some
sea swimming sessions in summer, when
St. Luke’s pool is closed for maintenance,
for example, and also when closed on Bank
Holidays. We may also join in with OTSS on
their sea swims. All sea swim events will be
notified to members in advance.
In most cases, we would normally expect
to meet as usual on Mondays at 7pm
– but at the Peace Statue on the Seafront,
opposite the Meeting Place Café (near the
old West Pier). All sea swims will be followed
(rapidly!) by a warm-up in a local hostelry.
swimming contact
Co-ordinators: Elaine and Paul
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
Tennis is a mixed ability sport and the
BLAGSS Tennis Group welcome everyone
who plays regularly or has played at least
a little in the past. They meet at noon on
Sundays at Hove Park courts, all year round.
In the summer, we also meet from 6pm on
Wednesdays.
“Generally you need to have played before
and be of a reasonable standard, in order to
keep a rally going of three people.” says Jeff,
one of the BLAGSS tennis co-ordinators. “As
with all sports, if you haven’t taken vigorous
exercise in a while, check with your GP before
doing so. Tennis is a pretty challenging sport
– using all those muscles you may not have
thought you had.”
The cost per session is very reasonable,
usually £1 or £2, when playing outdoors,
which covers court costs and keeps the new
ball supply going. Occasional tournaments
are held throughout the year.
tennis
Coordinators: Jeff or Raymond
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
TO JOIN ANY BLAGSS
ACTIVITIES
click:
www.blagss.org
It costs £12 per year to become a
member, or call 0845 65 blags
25
blagssactivities
tennis virgins
hit the ball outside the perimeter fence!
The cost to BLAGSS members will
be approximately £50. The course is
subsidised by BLAGSS and each of the
eight lessons will last an hour and a half.
Tennis Virgins is an eight-week tuition
course running at Badgers Tennis Club.
The first beginners courses started
in March. However, a second group will
meet on Thursday evenings. Places are
strictly limited so please contact Rob the
co-ordinator first.
Virgins at the ready...
Tennis Virgins
beginners who can’t hit a ball welcome
If you’re rubbish at tennis and would like
to learn the basics in a group of eight with
an experienced coach, then this is the
perfect course for you. You will learn basic
tennis skills. Depending on what the course
achieves, there may be an intermediate
group for those who want to continue – we
are also inviting players who have played
some tennis but want to improve their game.
For the beginners course, no
experience is required and it’s probably
best that you don’t have much at all.
The course will cover all the basics from
volleys, back hands and even how not to
Improvers tennis tuition
Have you played a little tennis and can
hit the ball over the net more often
than not, but would like to improve
your stroke? “If so, the improvers group
would have people continuing from the
beginners group and also invite new
improvers in at this stage who haven’t
needed to attend the beginners groups,”
says Rob. The beginners group is running
on a Sunday morning so please contact
Rob with your interest.
tennis virgins
Co-ordinator: Rob
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 BLAGS
10 pin bowling
BLAGSS 10-Pin Bowler Geoffrey, who won two gold
medals in last year’s Eurogames in Antwerp
10-Pin Bowling
mixed groups meet once a month
at bowlplex, brighton marina
26 The 10-Pin Bowling has about 50 active
members of both sexes, and between 10
and 20 turn up for the monthly session. We
meet on the third Tuesday of each month
at 7.30pm at the Brighton Marina Bowlplex.
However, please check we are meeting
before turning up.
“10-pin Bowling is a great sport that can
be enjoyed by newcomers and regulars
alike. Bowling dates back to 5200 BC,
with the modern game of tenpin bowling
evolving in the US during the of prohibition
era and first landing in the UK in the early
sixties,” says Patrick, the BLAGSS 10-pin
Bowling co-ordinator. “We have over 100
members and we regularly fill between two
and four lanes every session at Bowlplex.”
The emphasis is on social rather than
competitive sport and we often have a
drink afterwards to chat about anything
and everything. It’s a really laid back,
atmosphere and is a lot of fun. You don’t
need to be super fit, though anyone with
back or joint problems should seek advice
from their GP first.
“There is often a good mix of men and
women bowlers and the group is very social
and always has a lot of fun,” says Patrick.
“We meet around 7.30pm and start
bowling about 7.45pm. You don’t need to
BLAGSS girls having fun at Brighton Bowlplex
bring anything other than the fees as the
Bowlplex provides everything you need.
We bowl two games each and usually pop
across to the West Quay pub afterwards for
a quick drink.”
tenpin contact
Co-ordinator: Patrick
Email: bowling@ www.blagss.org
Phone: 0845 65 blags
www.blagss.org
blagssactivities
friday walking
walking
Friday Walking
walks during may to september
During the months of May to September,
BLAGSS runs a series of short evening walks
on Fridays to unwind from the weekly grind.
These include an evening meal taken at
a pub en-route or a restaurant afterwards.
The walks, lead by Jerem, are on the second
and fourth Fridays of each month.
All Walking images: Darrell Gale
Walking Groups
various walks throughout the year
The walking group is a friendly mixed group.
This summer we are having a short relaxing
ramble of three-four miles with a pub lunch,
usually on the first Saturday of the month,
and a longer walk of seven-eight miles – but
still not too strenuous – usually on the third
Sunday of the month.
“Probably one of the best things about
BLAGSS Walking Group is the social and
healthy aspect of the activity. Sussex is such
a wonderful walking territory, as it contains
such a variety of landscapes: chalk downland
with glorious views of seaside paths, winding
tracks through bluebell woods and along very
pretty streams in the Weald,” says Tim, Chair
and BLAGSS Walking co-ordinator.
“Typically we have a walk of between
three -five miles on the first Saturday of each
month, and a longer one of seven to nine
Summer 2008
miles on the third Sunday.
“The walks are not too strenuous, although you will feel you have had some good
exercise at the end! Downland walks usually
involve a couple of fairly steep climbs and on
the Weald, we often come across stiles and
foot bridges. However, we are not in the business of rushing, as most of the pleasure is to
chat in a relaxed atmosphere and admire the
lovely views.”
The Walking Groups attracts an age range
of approximately 40 to 60 years of age and
has a wide range of fitness levels within
the group. A pair of strong shoes or boots is
strongly recommended, as is a water bottle
and sun protection. On some walks, you will
need to bring a packed lunch, while on others a pub stop is available.
Four-legged walkers are very welcome,
though you will obviously need to have a lead
in readiness for livestock and roads.
Look out for this summer’s Pride Downland Walk that takes in Kemp Town via the
Race course to Rottingdean, then back to
Brighton along the Under Cliff Walk and the
Volks Railway on 27 July.
n Annual night walk: Each summer in
early July, we plan a popular moonlit walk
over the downs. It gives walkers a chance
to study the stars and planets and see
nocturnal nightlife including glow-worms,
owls, foxes and badgers.
friday walking contact
Coordinator: Jeremy
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
walking contact
Co-ordinator: Tim
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 blags
27
blagssactivities
volleyball (beach)
people,” says Anthony the beach volleyball
co-ordinator.
Beach Volleyball Coaching
In order to introduce new members to
the sport, we will be organising monthly
taster sessions. A coach will be on hand
to introduce the basic shots and play the
game. These sessions will last one hour and
BLAGSS is subsidising them.
Pride Beginners’ Coaching
Session
With the summer approaching, it’s time to get
out and playbeach volleyball at the Yellowave
Courts in Brighton!
Beach volleyball is a fun version of
volleyball played on the sand. Currently
made famous by its inclusion in the
Olympics and the very strict rules on
the maximum allowable bikini size in
the ladies game. It is a team sport for
between two and six people to play, with
scoring rules the same as badminton or
table tennis. It is simple to learn the basic
three shots (dig, set and spike) and you
can quickly get to playing games.
“We are organising coaching for those
that have never played before as well
as a regular game on Sundays, where
we will play in mixed teams of four to six
As part of Pride, there will be a coaching
session on 27 July from 4-5pm for new
members to the sport. This will be open
to BLAGSS and non-BLAGSS members
but is primarily aimed at encouraging nonmembers to join BLAGSS. The first 12 to
sign up will definitely get coached; if there
is more than that, we will need to book
another session. The price is £2. If you sign
up, please make sure you attend as BLAGSS
is subsidising the cost of the coach.
beach volleyball contact
Co-ordinator: Anthony or Nicky
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 BLAGS
yoga
“Yoga means ‘union’, and it is a way to
integrate the body and mind, or body,
mind and spirit. The yoga physical
exercises are called Asanas, a term which
means steady pose. This is because
Yoga Asanas (or posture) is meant to be
held for some time, including flexibility,
strength and balance. Yoga also
teaches us how to use our lungs to their
maximum capacity and how to control
the breath,” says Daniel, the co-ordinator.
“The classes follow a set format, starting
with some short chanting to tune-in, just
to set up for the yoga session after a
day out in the world, and then move into
the breathing and exercises, which are
mainly done seated.”
There are two classes under the
auspices of BLAGSS that run on a regular
basis, in the Sivananda and Kundalini
traditions.
The Sivananda classes are led by
Daniel, the BLAGSS yoga rep, who has
practiced and taught Sivananda yoga
for a number of years. Sivananda yoga
is in the Hatha tradition, which means
that the classes are based on breathing
(pranayama), postures (asanas), and
relaxation. Some experience of Hatha
yoga is required to get the most from
these classes.
28 They are held at BHASVIC, at the
junction of Dyke Road and Old Shoreham
Road, on Tuesday evenings, from 78.30pm. Parking is possible in the car
park on the Old Shoreham Road side of
the college. Note that there will be no
classes during July; they will start again
on 5 August.
The Kundalini classes are also on
a drop-in basis, at the Anahata Health
Centre on Edward Street in Kemp Town.
Kundalini yoga practice focuses on
awakening kundalini energy, which is
stored at the base of the spine and often
depicted as a coiled snake. Kundalini
yoga mixes chanting, breathing practices,
yoga exercises and meditation. These
classes run from 7.45-9pm on Monay
evenings. The classes cater for all levels
of practice.You don’t need to bring
your own mat as all the equipment is
provided, and there is somewhere you
can change. Bring loose comfortable
clothing; and don’t eat a heavy meal
within an hour or so of the class.
Antigoni’s class is usually held every
Monday, between 7.45-9pm at the
Anahata Health Clinic, 119-120 Edward
Street. The fee is £5/£4. Previous
experience is not required – as your
teacher, Antigoni clearly explains each
move. There is a good mix of gentle and
more vigorous exercise, and the sets vary
with each class.
yoga contact
Co-ordinator: Daniel
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0845 65 BLAGS
www.blagss.org
blagssactivities
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Institute of Directors
Sussex Branch
supports Brighton Pride
and is keen to welcome
new BLAGSS members.
For details of the benefits of joining
IoD and forthcoming Sussex Branch
events please contact:
Roz Spellman
IoD Sussex Branch
106 Rodmell Avenue, Saltdean
Brighton, East Sussex
T: 01273 390131
E: [email protected]
www.iod.com/sussex
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blagssfriends
COMMUNITY SPORTS ORGANISATIONS AND GROUPS
If you would like your sports group added to GOBLAGSS magazine, then please send copy to: [email protected] Please note
that inclusion is for voluntary, non-profit making organisations only. Deadline for all editorial: Monday, ! September 2008
The Brighton Pride Golf Challenge
Contact: Helen, [email protected]
Bike for life: Bike for Life is an
independent cycle training organisation
dedicated to promoting cycling and helping
anybody to bike for health, for leisure, for
fun. www.bikeforlife.org.uk
Brighton Bandits Football Club:
Brighton Bandits FC is the only football club
in the city of Brighton and Hove for gay and
gay-friendly men and women.
Contact: www.banditsfc.org
Cheek2Cheek: Lesbian and gay dance
classes. Cheek2Cheek dance group,
7.30pm for Improvers and 8.15pm for
beginners, every Tuesday.
[email protected]
CycleOut Gay Cycling Group: CycleOut
is a gay cycling club with a programme of
cycling events. www.cycleout.org.uk
Gay Cycling Touring Trips: A group for
gay men and friends who want to keep in
contact to make congenial groups offering
The Brighton Pride Walk
contact: tim, [email protected]
holidays or cycling runs.
www.gaycycling.wfour.co.uk
Gay Sailing Group: A sailing club for LGBT
people, their families, friends and others,
who own boats or want to go sailing.
www.gaysailing.org.uk
GAYSWAG: (Gay Sussex Walking Group)
For details of the group or walks go to:
www.gayswag.co.uk
Gay Sunday Walking Group: One all-day
and one half-day walk each month.
www.gswg.org.uk
GLUG: (Gay and Lesbian Underwater Group)
Scuba Diving club for gay, lesbian, bisexual,
and transgendered divers and their friends.
www.glug.co.uk.
Ishigaki Ju-Jitsu: Martial Arts club for the
LGBT community. www.ishigaki.org.uk
Out to Swim South: Out to Swim has
Get involved in the Pride Walk
Contact: [email protected]
launched a new club based on the South
Coast. You should be able to swim for an
hour and be able to swim a minimum of two
strokes. www.outtoswim.org
Sailing and Cruising Association:
Promotes sailing and boating among gays
and lesbians and their families and friends.
www.gaysailing.org.uk
Gay Outdoor Club: The Gay Outdoor Club
operates throughout the UK and provides
a wide range of outdoor and indoor sports
and recreational activities for gay, lesbian,
bisexual and transgender men and women.
www.goc.org.uk
OutToTri: UK national group aimed at, but
not exclusively LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual
and Transgendered) triathletes. and
wannabe triathletes. www.outtotri.co.uk
Outdoor Lads: A national LGBT outdoor
pursuits network A national LGBT network:
www.outdoorlads.com
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30 www.blagss.org