CityLife

Trevor's game for more laughs

TREVOR Burchick claims that it was sport gave him 'a life' on the eve of the Pride Games taking place around the city this weekend.

The man behind the hugely successful sporting event said: "When I first started doing what I'm doing I didn't really know anyone. Now I know so many people from travelling around that I have trouble remembering names."

Burchick truly is an ambassadorial figure in the world of gay sports. So much so in fact he was given an MBE by the Queen for services to said activity.

He's now on a mission to get everyone healthier, fitter and more alert. This weekend in Manchester is the city's chance.

"I've never been a sports fanatic," he says.

"In fact I never even thought about getting involved until I was 37.

"Since I took up swimming, however, I'm sharper than ever and am less affected by stress."

If anything however is likely to push those stress levels back up again it's organising the Pride Games kicking off in Alexandra Park on Sunday with a charity Fun Day.

There's a 5k run, community relays, a climbing wall and even a rugby league taster encouraging people to get involved. Money raised from the event will go to the George House Trust.

Scary word

"It's really a chance for people to drop in and try something new out," says Trevor hoping to warm those to whom sport is a scary word.

"Sport to me is not about body fascism it's about engaging with other people and having a good time getting fitter.

"All Pride Games are about participation and engaging rather than just competition."

Sunday also sees Trevor's Northern Waves swimming club take over the Manchester Aquatic Centre with coached swimming sessions for those who want to improve their technique.

Throughout next week there's also badminton, archery, volleyball and even water polo to engage people.

"I think it's vital that we as a community stay healthy," says Trevor explaining his motivations behind the week ahead.

"It's easy not have a healthy lifestyle because so much of the gay scene involves going out.

"But about 80 per cent of the gay community don't go out and they need to connect with other people.

"Sport reaches out to people in that way. And it keeps people looking good too!"

Voted as the best gay sports event in 2007 by The Pink Paper, Pride Games seems to be going from strength to strength with Trevor at the helm.

New categories this year include rugby league, Scottish ceilidh dancing and motorbiking, so there's more reason to engage with an annual event that's both fun and healthy.

For more information visit pridegames.org .