Chicago has been selected to be the prospective site for Gay Games VII in 2006. Chicago beat out a bid from Los Angeles to host the games by a vote of the event’s governing body, the Federation of Gay Games. The final vote count has not yet been disclosed.

In a conference call, Federation officials congratulated members of Chicago Games Inc., and leaders of both groups expressed excitement at the promise of a productive and constructive partnership.

“Chicago Games Inc. put together an extraordinary proposal that demonstrates significant community support, a sound financial plan, and an international vision for Gay Games VII,” said Kathleen Webster, Federation co-president, from her home in Philadelphia. “We look forward to working closely with them to make the next Gay Games an outstanding event for all our participants.”

Chicago Games Inc. co-chairs, Dennis Sneyers and Sue Connolly, said in a statement, “We are thrilled to be named host for the 2006 Gay Games. Chicago’s LGBT sports clubs, cultural institutions, government and business supporters are eager to welcome the world to our beautiful city, and to produce an unforgettable week of competition, cultural events, and camaraderie. With Chicago’s amazing lakefront, gorgeous skyline, world class sports facilities, strong LGBT community and renowned sports fans, we believe there is no better place than Chicago to welcome Gay Games participants in 2006.”

The bidding process included an exchange of ideas about the proposed license agreement between the Federation and each of the bidding organizations, leaving the Federation optimistic that contract discussions will proceed without undue delay over the next several weeks.

“The Chicago team has demonstrated they understand that the Gay Games is first and foremost about the LGBT community and sports,” said Roberto Mantaci, Paris-based Federation co-president. “The Gay Games provides many opportunities to spotlight cultural diversity and other aspects of the host community, but a Gay Games that runs the sports well and provides a chance for every participant to do his or her personal best will be true to the founding principles of Gay Games I in 1982.”

The last Gay Games held in the United States took place in New York in 1994. That event was a landmark in U.S. immigration history in that entry barriers to those who were HIV-positive were waived specifically for participation in Gay Games IV. Federation and Chicago officials said they would begin work immediately to ensure that HIV-positive individuals and others with immigration concerns can participate freely in the 2006 Gay Games.

“We also gratefully acknowledge and extend our heartfelt thanks to members of the Los Angeles 2006, Inc. bidding organization for their commitment and support of the Gay Games movement,” Webster said. “It is clear from their bid materials that Los Angeles would be an outstanding site for the Gay Games, and we look forward to their bidding again in the future.”

The Chicago Gay Games will be held July 15-22, 2006. Keep reading the Gay & Lesbian Times for updates on the games and information about the registration process when it opens.