More than 500 visitors took part in a host of sports and leisure activities on Sunday (16th June) as part of London Pride’s inaugural 2024 Out for Sport Festival at the iconic Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.

The event, which was the first of its kind to take place in the capital, was established with the aim of breaking down barriers to sports participation.

Approximately 20 LGBTQ+ inclusive sports clubs, representing a wide range of sporting disciplines and drawn from across London, offered free taster sessions throughout the day. Visitors had the opportunity to try their hand at everything from Rugby and Boxing to Line Dancing, Tennis and Jujitsu.

The focus of the Festival was inclusivity, with activities suitable for anyone regardless of their sporting experience or fitness levels. It is hoped that it will serve to increase LGBTQ+ community involvement in sport by raising awareness and providing support.

Event organiser David Lionetti commented: “We had a fantastic turnout on Sunday, with more than 500 visitors enjoying the opportunity to try a different sports, make new friends and experience the mental and physical benefits that sport and physical activities can offer.

“Crystal Palace National Sports Centre, the home of many national and international sporting championships provided an inspiring backdrop and we’re grateful to Better, the charitable social enterprise that operates the centre, for its support.

“This is the first year of what we hope will become a London institution and we look forward to a bigger and better event in 2025.”

 

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