Gay powerlifting
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As an openly gay athlete, he has faced and overcome challenges related to homophobia and discrimination in sports.
The next Gay Games are scheduled to take place in Paris in 2018. The Gay Games in Cologne 2010 took place during very difficult global economic conditions, which also affected general participation levels.
Several times ahead of the Cologne 2010 it was suggested that we offer both Equipped and Unequipped versions of our sport, along with Single lift competitions in the individual Squat, Bench Press and Deadlift disciplines to increase participation – but the IPF would not agree to this.
Great credit should be given to John Skelton for stepping in at late notice and helping Cleveland 2014 to deliver a Powerlifting event.
His early successes laid the groundwork for a career that would see him rise to international prominence.
Athletic achievements:
- World Champion Titles: He has won multiple world championships across different federations, including the Global Powerlifting Committee (GPC) and the World Drug-Free Powerlifting Federation (WDFPF).
- European and British Championships: Chris has secured numerous European and British titles, setting records in the squat, bench press, and deadlift.
- Consistent International Presence: Representing Great Britain, he has competed in over 30 international championships, often serving as team captain.
Impact on LGBT Inclusion
Chris Morgan’s influence extends far beyond his athletic accomplishments.
You can see more about the proposed events and activities in the survey below.
We are asking if you would like to participate in an International LGBT Powerlifting Championships that would be arranged close to either London Pride or Brighton Pride in 2017 and arranged close to Gay Games Paris in 2018?
We are proposing to offer all different Powerlifting disciplines, including full Powerlifting, single lifts, Equipped, Unequipped lifters and also a team point’s competition.
There is very little known about the first three Powerlifting competitions, however these are some of the statistics since the Gay Games held in New York in 1994.
If anyone has information about 1982, 1986 and 1990 please let me know.
New York 1994 – Sanctioned by Unkown
Events: Powerlifting
Total Participants 32 (3 from outside of the USA 9%)
Female Participants 15 (47%)
Male Participants 17 (53%)
Amsterdam 1998 – Sanctioned By International Powerlifting Federation (IPF)
Events: Equipped Powerlifting, Equipped Bench Press
Total Participants 33 (9 from outside of the USA 27%)
Female Participants 17 (52%)
Male Participants 16 (48%)
Sydney 2002 – Sanctioned By International Powerlifting Federation (IPF)
Events: Equipped Powerlifting, Equipped Bench Press
Total Participants 31 (13 from outside of the USA 41%)
Female Participants 14 (45%)
Male Participants 17 (55%)
Chicago 2006 – Sanctioned By International Powerlifting Federation (IPF)
Events: Equipped Powerlifting, Some participants Deadlift only due to injury
Total Participants 40 (5 from outside of the USA 13%)
Female Participants 15 (37%)
Male Participants 25 (63%)
Cologne 2010 – Unsanctioned with support of International Powerlifting Federation (IPF)
Events: Equipped Powerlifting, Some participants Deadlift only due to injury
Total Participants 24 (12 from outside of the USA 50%)
Female Participants 6 (25%)
Male Participants 18 (75%)
Cleveland 2014 – Sanctioned by United States Powerlifting Association
Events: Equipped Powerlifting, Unequipped Powerlifting, Individual Single Lifts (Squat, Bench & Deadlift), Push & Pull Competition all Equipped and Unequipped.
Total Participants 49 (2 from outside of the USA 4%)
Female Participants 18 (25%)
Male Participants 31 (75%)
Notes to Statistics
It should be noted that the Sydney 2002 Gay Games were held in the shadow of 9/11, which affected the general participation levels due to travel concerns.
Let’s dive into the inspiring journey of LGBT powerlifting, highlighting its evolution and those who have championed acceptance and equality.
A Brief History of LGBT Powerlifting
Powerlifting has traditionally been perceived as a heteronormative sport, often dominated by stereotypes of hyper-masculinity. His dual legacy as a champion powerlifter and advocate for equality continues to inspire.
We invite you to dive deeper into the world of LGBT powerlifting and learn more about Chris and other pioneers who are changing the sport.
Together, we can continue to lift not only the burdens, but also the barriers that prevent true equality in sports.
Gay Games Powerlifting – Past, Present, Future
Gay Games Powerlifting – Past, Present, Future
Past …
Powerlifting has been part of the Gay Games since the first event was held in San Francisco in 1982 and has since taken place in every Gay Games right through to the one that was last held in Cleveland in 2014.
Traditionally the competition takes place on the opening morning of the games, which usually falls on a Sunday.
Chris Morgan: A Champion of Strength and Inclusivity in Powerlifting
Chris Morgan is a renowned British powerlifter whose name resonates not only for his remarkable achievements on the global stage but also for his pioneering advocacy for LGBT inclusion in sports. The participation levels in Cleveland would suggest that we should offer a full range of events in future Gay Games to maximise participation.
Present …
Gay Games Ambassador Chris Morgan and a group of LGBT Powerlifters from around the world have recently been talking to the Federation of Gay Games, about holding an affiliate Powerlifting event during the Gay Games in Paris 2018.
Sadly, we have now received a final response from Paris 2018 and they are unwilling to support an LGBT Powerlifting competition during the Gay Games in Paris.
The establishment of events such as the Gay Games and the OutGames offered platforms where powerlifters could compete openly, fostering a sense of community and acceptance.
Prominent Figures Making a Difference
Several courageous individuals have stood at the forefront of this movement, using their platforms to advocate for inclusion and equality in powerlifting:
- Janae Marie Kroc: Formerly known as Matt Kroczaleski, Janae is a celebrated transgender athlete who has been a significant figure in powerlifting.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/JV75ZJD
2) IF YOU ARE CERTAIN OF ATTENDING PLEASE ALSO EMAILCHRIS MORGAN DIRECTLY. Together, we can lift not only weights, but barriers as well, paving the way for a stronger and more united community.
The “Home of Queer Strength”
Registration for Pride Powerlifting - Mansfield 2025 is now open!
Registration for Pride Powerlifting 2025 - Mansfield is now live!
Click here to register and join us for a weekend of fun, comradery and a shared love of Powerlifting.
LGBTPU 2025 Powerlifting Championships
We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025 LGBTPU Powerlifting Championships on Saturday, July 19th, and Sunday, July 20th 2025, at the Mansfield "Old Tyme Strength" Gym, led and in association with Chris Gray and his team.
We look forward to applications from all over the world, and we’re opening registration on December 1st, 2024, to give everyone maximum time to plan, practice, and organize their travel to be part of next year's championship.
We are also excited to announce open registration for Gay Game XII Valencia 2026 please follow this link for more information and how to register: valenciagaygames.fusesport.com/registration/1047/
Furthermore, in July next year, we will be celebrating the life of Charlotte Wareing in her memory at that event.
Initially involved in athletics and martial arts, he found his true calling in powerlifting at the age of 17. Over a career spanning more than two decades, Chris has exemplified excellence in powerlifting while using his platform to promote equality, making significant strides toward a more inclusive sporting world.
Early Life and Introduction to Powerlifting
Born on March 16, 1973, in London, England, Chris discovered his passion for strength sports at a young age.
There is still a need for greater visibility, understanding, and support within the sport. Instead of allowing these obstacles to hinder him, Chris transformed them into motivation to advocate for change.
Contributions to LGBT Advocacy:
- Founding Member of LGBT Powerlifting Union: Chris co-founded this organization to create a supportive network for LGBT powerlifters worldwide.
- Pioneer in the Gay Games: He has been instrumental in promoting powerlifting within the Gay Games, a global event that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
- Ambassador Roles: Serving as an ambassador for organizations like Pride Sports and the Federation of Gay Games, Chris works tirelessly to promote inclusivity in sports.
- Public Speaking and Education: He engages in workshops, seminars, and speaking engagements to raise awareness about LGBT issues in athletics.
Through these efforts, Chris has inspired countless athletes to embrace their identities confidently.
Competitions are becoming more inclusive, and representation is steadily increasing.
However, challenges remain. The sport’s combination of discipline, focus, and sheer physical challenge appealed to him deeply.
Chris began competing in local competitions, quickly making a name for himself due to his dedication and natural talent. Education and open dialogue are essential to dismantle lingering prejudices and to foster an environment where every athlete can thrive authentically.
Join the Movement and Explore More
The LGBT powerlifting journey is a testament to the courage, determination, and indomitable spirit of athletes who refuse to conform to societal norms.
The 1990s marked the beginning of a quiet revolution when more athletes began to openly embrace their identities, challenging the norms and breaking barriers within the sport.
Organizations like the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics (IGLA) expanded to include strength sports, providing a safe and supportive environment for LGBT athletes.
For more information about the Gay Games visit www.gaygames.comand www.paris2018.com
Strength and Pride: The Journey of LGBT Powerlifting
Welcome to our platform dedicated to celebrating LGBT resilience, strength and unity in the world of powerlifting.