About Us Gay Games 2030

1 / 1

About Us

The GGDen2030 committee has a singular mission: to bring the Federation of Gay Games to Denver, Colorado, USA in 2030.

Join & Support Donate

LGBTQ+ Community and Beyond

Our goal is to showcase Denver's vibrant LGBTQ+ sports scene, rich culture, and diverse arts, illustrating how the city can "Change the World" by hosting Gay Games XIII. Committed to advancing LGBTQ+ empowerment and unity, GGDen2030 aims to create a world where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feels a profound sense of belonging and pride. We strive to foster inclusivity, break down barriers, and champion diversity through sports, cultural events, and community outreach.

Beyond the event, our vision extends to leaving a lasting legacy of acceptance, equality, and unity. We aspire to celebrate achievements, amplify voices, and promote understanding within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. Join us in driving change, pushing boundaries to shape a future where love knows no bounds, and where the 2030 Gay Games in Denver become a symbol of resilience, and progress for the LGBTQ+ community and its allies. Together, let's build a world where everyone can play, compete, and thrive.


Gay Games 2030 Denver Bid

Together Out West — Denver’s bid for the 2030 Gay Games XIII. Since 1982, the International Federation of Gay Games mission promotes diversity, equity and inclusion through sport and culture.

Meet the Committee

The GGDen2030 Bid Committee builds on the success of the Denver 2022 Bid Committee, inheriting valuable experience, skills, resources, and local connections. Our empowering leadership team, representing diverse facets of Colorado’s LGBTQ+ community, has the autonomy to form dynamic teams. Guided by a dedicated Board of Directors, our committee takes a strategic approach to Sports and Culture Programming, LGBTQ+ and Community Outreach, Finance, Fundraising, Volunteerism, and Government Affairs. Our multigenerational force blends Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials, fostering a dynamic environment and paving the way for LGBTQ+ leaders. Most members have firsthand experience with the transformative power of the Gay Games, ensuring our bid reflects the heart and soul of Denver's LGBTQ+ community. 

Lance Husak (he/him)

Lance Husak (he/him)

Bid Committee Co-Chair | lance@ggden2030.com
Courtney von Bergen (she/her)

Courtney von Bergen (she/her)

Bid Committee Co-Chair | courtney@ggden2030.com
Eli Joren (he/him)

Eli Joren (he/him)

Bid Committee Sports Director | eli@ggden2030.com
Matthew Payne (he/him)

Matthew Payne (he/him)

VISIT DENVER & Denver Sports Commission | mpayne@denversports.org
Amy Bryant (they/them)

Amy Bryant (they/them)

Bid Committee Cultural Director | amy@ggden2030.com
R. Tony Smith (he/him)

R. Tony Smith (he/him)

Bid Committee Public Relations Director | tony@ggden2030.com
Eli Rutherford (he/him)

Eli Rutherford (he/him)

Bid Committee Fundraising Director | eli.r@ggden2030.com
Matthew Bendure (he/him)

Matthew Bendure (he/him)

Bid Committee Communications Director | matthew@ggdden2030.com
Nick Sophinos (they/them)

Nick Sophinos (they/them)

Bid Committee Finance Director | nick@ggden2030.com
Keenan Kanaeholo (he/him)

Keenan Kanaeholo (he/him)

Bid Committee Marketing Director | keenan@ggden2030.com
Jeff Wilson (he/him)

Jeff Wilson (he/him)

Digital Content & Social Media | jeff@ggden2030.com


Our Denver Bid Committee will endeavor to “Change the World” by bringing 12,000 athletes and artists to Colorado in a myriad of sport and cultural activities. Join Governor Polis and Mayor Johnston in sending a clear message of support, that Denver wants the Gay Games to come to Denver in 2030!