Compete March April 2019

Richmond, Virginia Celebrates Diversity

the power of

POLO the magic of the milan twins

sports pioneer

chris mosier

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MARCH-APRIL 2019 COMPETENETWORK.COM Compete's #TBT Issue!

ONE-ON-ONE 16 Well, Halleloo Shangela!

MVP 24 Todd Tramp ATHLETE 30 Double Trouble: Gay and Straight Milan Twins SPORTS 26 Gay Polo League Spreads Sports and Inclusion Across Borders FACES OF SPORTS 36 Jen Welter’s Coaching is More Than Xs & Os SPORTS DIVERSITY 34 Documentarian Daniel Koenig Focuses on Para-Rowing: 38 Chris Mosier: Blazing a Trail for Trans Athletes GYM BAG 40 Hot Items You Shouldn't Do Without EVENTS 42

Calendar of Events

BEDROOM SPORTS 44

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THE CATBIRD SEAT: FROM THE EXECUTIVE EDITOR

IT'S COMPETE'S THROWBACK THURSDAY (#TBT) ISSUE!

W

elcome to Compete’s #TBT issue! While preparing our launch into larger bookstores, we were reminiscing about the many wonderful sports diversity stories Compete has published in its 13-year history. As we enter this exciting new phase, we decided to first spotlight a few of our articles from recent years.

Shangela? Well, Halleloo – everyone loves Shangela so we included her interview. And then there’s the Milan twins, both playing in the National Gay Flag Football’s League’s 17th annual Gay Bowl in Boston. It’s almost impossible to tell them apart except for one thing – “they both play on the same team but they don’t necessarily play for the same team.

Confused? Read the story for the “translation.”

Think the old South capital of Richmond, Virginia is still holding onto its past? Think again. Richmond’s not only OUT, it’s also a mecca for sports! It still has its beautiful Southern charm but it’s also raised its HRC Municipal Equality Index (MEI) to 94 percent. And they’re hosting the inaugural 2019 Compete Sports Diversity Jubilee on May 17-19, the firstof-its-kind east coast multi-sports tournament.

Polo isn’t a sport often covered by LGBTQ+ media yet the Gay Polo League (GPL) is spreading the sport as well as inclusion and diversity across international borders. Their ability to have fun while donating to the LGBTQ+ community has impressed their presenting sponsor to write a letter explaining its reasons for sponsoring GPL’s annual Gay Polo Tournament.

We’ve included a story on elite athlete Chris Mosier, Compete’s 2013 Mark Bingham Athlete of the Year. As a trans man, he’s blazed a trail for other trans athletes by earning a place on the national men’s team competing for Team USA at the 2016 World Duathlon Championship in Spain. Mosier’s activism prompted the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to revise its transgender guidelines, opening the opportunity for trans athletes around the world to compete based on their gender identity.

Other inspirational stories include Dr. Jen Welter and documentarian Daniel Koenig. Welter has amazed us with her abilities as a football player, an NFL coach and a significant role model for young girls and women alike, and Koenig followed four elite para-rowers as they trained and competed for a spot on the U.S. National Rowing Team.

Sometimes you need to stop and review the amazing but often unrecognized progress that’s been made in the sports diversity movement. TBH, I’m so glad we did this #TBT!

Keep Smiling,

@CompeteConnie

Connie Wardman, M.A., SDLT Executive Editor connie@competenetwork.com

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MILLENNIAL ON SPORTS: FROM THE SPORTS EDITOR

UNITY AND EQUALITY THROUGH SPORTS

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BY DIRK SMITH

he 2018 Winter Olympics have wrapped up and it has certainly been quite an exciting journey for all of us who love sports and the ideals of this global quadrennial celebration of world unity represented by the Olympic Games. The good news is that the 2020 Summer Games in Tokyo are only two years away.

The pageantry of the Opening and Closing Ceremonies with its parade of athletes from so many nations is what makes the Olympic Games so impactful; the excitement and thrill we see from athletes who have worked so hard just for a chance to compete while representing their communities and countries. As always, there were some AWESOME gold medal performances this year from athletes all over the world who came together in PyeongChang for this celebration of unity through sport.

But this was the first Winter Olympics with openly gay and lesbian athletes being selected to represent their countries. Figure skaters Adam Rippon and Eric Radford slayed it on the ice, freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy ripped it up on the slopes and hopefully you were able to catch a glimpse of speed skater Brittany Bowe as she went flying by at breakneck speed. And who didn’t love Johnny Weir and Tara Lipinski’s “Hunger Games” commentary for the Olympic Figure Skating competition.

While the 2018 Winter Olympics are now part of Olympic history, the 2018 Winter Paralympic Games are set to begin. The Paralympics are every bit as exciting as the Olympics; just like the Olympians, these Paralympian athletes have been training and working their whole lives for the chance to shine on the world stage. This is their time to show the world just how capable they really are.

The Paralympics are important because it’s about more than simple equality in sports; it’s about showing the world the very best of a human being’s capacity to adapt under extraordinary circumstances. Rather than focusing on surviving and recovering, it’s about showcasing athletes who are thriving and succeeding. It is inspirational to watch Paralympians compete because beyond the sport itself, you are really seeing the true potential and capability of the human race in action!

Another important outcome of the Paralympic Games is that they lead the way to increased accessibility in their host cities. Designing venues and infrastructure that are more accessible for all athletes and visitors creates more opportunities for people who are inspired by their favorite athletes to get involved in sports. The 2018 Winter Paralympics take place March 8th-18th so tune in because I’m sure it’s going to be awesome!

I’m also looking forward to the Gay Games in Paris where thousands of recreational athletes from all walks of life will be coming together. Having competed in other Gay Games, I will also be competing in Paris. I’m already looking forward to experiencing once again the diversity and energy the world’s gay and straight athletes will bring to this year’s event. I know a lot of people are training hard and with only months to go, the event is shaping up to be a great time. Are you training? Because I sure am!

Dirk Smith, SDL Sports Editor dirk@competenetwork.com @competedirk

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COMPETE EDITORS EXECUTIVE EDITOR Connie Wardman, M.A., SDLT A graduate of Chatham University and Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Connie is an adult educator by profession and has a Master's Degree in Adult and Community Education. She has been the editor of Compete Magazine since 2011.

SPORTS EDITOR DIRK Dirk (David) Smith , SDL Dirk holds a B.S. in Exercise Science and Nutrition from MSU Denver and is NSCA, ACSM, AFAA and AFPAI-certified in addition to being a Red Cross Certified Emergency Medical Responder.

A medal-winning swimmer, he is currently pursuing a graduate degree in Cologne, Germany.

HEALTH EDITOR Dr. John Sutherland A graduate of Harvard and the University of Michigan Medical School, Dr. John Sutherland is a board certified internist and cardiologist and the founder of the North Mountain Cardio programs for health and wellbeing.

COMMUNITY EDITOR AT LARGE Ty Nolan, SDL An experienced LGBTQ community counselor, Ty is also a Native American storyteller and a USA Today and New York Times Best Selling Author, winning the 2014 BP Readers Choice Award for "Coyote Still Going: Native American Legends and Contemporary Stories."

Advisory Board DJ Doran, SDLT, Diversitas Media Dr. William Kapfer, JP Morgan Chase Angela Smith, SDL, ASANA Jake Mason, SDL, USA Dodgeball

SDLC Executive Advisory Committee Eric Carlyle, SDLT Patrick Higgins, SDLT, Connect Sports Catherine Kelly, SDLT, NAGAAA MISSION STATEMENT Compete unites the world through sports.

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PUBLISHER/CEO Eric Carlyle • eric@competenetwork.com COMPETE MAGAZINE Executive Editor Connie Wardman • connie@competenetwork.com Sports Editor Dirk Smith • dirk@competenetowork.com Health Editor Dr. John Sutherland • johns@competenetwork.com Fitness Editor Jake Tommerup • jake@competenetwork.com Art Director Heather Brown • heather@competenetwork.com Graphic Designer Kristi Wayland • kristi@competenetwork.com Contributors Ryan Adams, Harry Andrew, Ian Colgate, Ryan Evans, Jared Garduno, Aurelio Giordano, Catherine (CJ) Kelly, Miriam Latto, Kevin Majoros, Ryan O'Connor, Clay Partain, Brian Patrick, Elaine Wessel Staff Photographer Ariel Stevens • ariel@competenetwork.com COO/Consultant Barbara Harwell • barbara@competenetwork.com Sales & Operations Vice President Jared Garduno • jared@competenetwork.com Administration Bethany Harvat • bethany@competenetwork.com SDLC Program Coordinator Raleigh Dombek • raleigh@sportsdiversityleaders.com Copyright © 2019 MEDIA OUT LOUD, LLC All Rights Reserved.

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HIGH FIVE

Magazine gives out High Fives each issue to deserving athletes, teams, leagues, organizations and corporations as well as high profile celebrities for their contributions to promote diversity, inclusion, equality and acceptance for all. Here are five who get a

To donate to the organization’s fundraising campaign: https://www.crowdrise.com/o/en/campaign/you-can-play-boston-2019

ANTOINETTE “TONI” HARRIS, THE HISTORY-MAKING 22-YEAR-OLD HONORS STUDENT AND FEMALE FOOTBALL PLAYER FOR EAST LOS ANGELES COLLEGE … for making sports history three times: first as the first female on her LA college team, second as the first female football player to appear in a Super Bowl commercial this past February and finally for being the first female player in a skilled position to receive a full scholarship to play college football at Central Methodist University in Missouri. She received six collegiate offers in total and her goal is to be the first female player in the NFL. RYAN O’NEILL AND KAUE GARCIA … for becoming the first gay married couple to own a rugby team -- the Keighley Cougars, a professional rugby league club from Keighley in West Yorkshire, England.

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE … for holding a continuing quiet, low key series of “Hi-Five” events with the You Can Play Project to make LGBTQ+ youth feel welcomed by the sports community. And to some of their recent panelists for their willingness to share their stories with the youth: now openly gay retired NFL players Wade Davis, Esera Tuaolo, Tony Richardson and Ryan O’Callaghan plus Michael Sam, the first openly gay player to be drafted into the NFL. THOMAS PANEK, PRESIDENT AND CEO OF GUIDING EYES FOR THE BLIND … for becoming the first blind runner to complete the 2019 New York City Half Marathon with a trio of guide dogs – Westley, Waffle and Gus. The dogs took turns pacing him along the 13.1-mile course. In past races Panek has relied on volunteers to guide him.

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Trent Tay

“… athletes should be given a fair opportunity to compete, judged by others only by what they contribute to the sport or their team’s success. … You Can Play’s messaging is not just directed to those who identify as LGBTQ, but those around them: active allies and others - their teammates, coaches, families, fans, and communities as a whole - without judgement or assumption. Changing the experience of LGBTQ athletes, coaches, and fans is about changing the world around them, not just their own internal feelings of acceptance and willingness to be their true selves.”

urtesy of

YOU CAN PLAY PROJECT (YCP) … for fielding a team to compete in the upcoming Boston Marathon to increase positive visibility so the idea that LGBTQ+ athletes deserve the right to play sports is normalized. Here is what YCP has to say about its mission:

lor

High Five for a job well done!

Photo co

HIGH

As an early leader in the sports diversity movement, Compete

COMPETE READER SURVEY & GRANDSTANDING FAVORITE BEACH ACCESSORY

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LETTERS to COMPETE GRANDSTANDING Love American Style (Nov-Dec 2018) I love Ryan O’Callaghan! It was nice to see a burly football player grace the cover of your November-December issue. It seems like O’Callaghan has moved on from his NFL days and is creating a better life and therefore, a better Ryan. What a great example for all of us.

James Nyland Portland, Maine Gaymer On! (Jan-Feb 2019) It’s been a while since I attended the Sin City Classic but am looking forward to hanging up my cleats, grabbing my game controller and heading to Las Vegas. As a former softball player I am looking forward to competing as a gaymer next year.

Susie Jeffries Denver, Colorado Please submit all Letters to Compete via email to letters@competenetwork.com.

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JACKIE ROBINSON DAY MARKS 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF MLB DEBUT This April 15 all Major League Baseball (MLB) teams will hold Jackie Robinson Day, both to commemorate the man and to honor his important legacy of diversity, inclusion and equality in sports.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of his MLB debut and it reminds us all of the powerful impact made by this much beloved outstanding athlete and unassuming human being.

When Jackie Robinson made his MLB debut with the then-Brooklyn (now Los Angeles) Dodgers back in 1947 at Ebbets Field in New York’s borough of Brooklyn, he became a sports diversity hero – he broke the color barrier by becoming the first AfricanAmerican player to join an all white team. By walking onto that field, at age 28 he broke the accepted 80-plus years of segregation in sports. In 1962 Robinson was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

Robinson’s iconic uniform No. 42 was permanently retired at the 50th anniversary celebration by MLB Commissioner Bud Selig who was joined Robinson’s daughter Rachel and President Bill Clinton at Shea

Stadium in 1997. But the growing demand by players wanting permission to wear No. 42 changed the rules. As of 2009 all uniformed personnel (players, managers, coaches and umpires) now wear No. 42 on their uniforms just for the day, and in 2011 a new MLB website, www.iam42.com was established.

This year the Dodgers pay homage to their own by unveiling a 10-foot-tall statue of Robinson at Dodger Stadium. Guests for the game will be Rachel and Sharon Robinson, his widow and daughter, as well as Hall of Famer Frank Robinson and Dodgers special advisor Don Newcombe who played with Robinson in Brooklyn. They’ll all be watching Dave Roberts, the Dodgers’ first minority manager as he leads his team against San Francisco.

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https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Jackie_Robinson#/media/File:JackieRobinson1945.jpg

SPORTS

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ONE ON ONE We were both fortunate to be able to interview the fabulous Shangela (aka D.J. Pierce)! For the few, if any, who aren’t familiar with her, she’s possibly best known for her appearances on “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and other TV shows and appearances. But Pierce is a real force in the entertainment world through his drag management company, Say What Entertainment.

And now, here’s Shangela!

Dirk Smith & Jared Garduno, aka Compete: You’ve competed in not one, not two but now THREE seasons of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Will the third time be the charm?

Shangela: I definitely hope so! I came back smarter, stronger and with a fire to win. I wanted to showcase to RuPaul and to my fans how I’ve grown over the last six and a half years and how strong a competitor I can truly be.

Compete: What have you been up to since Season 3 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars?”

Well, Halleloo

Shangela!

BY DIRK SMITH WITH JARED GARDUNO

S. After Season 3 I put a lot of dedication into being the best drag entertainer that I could be – the most well-rounded drag entertainer that I could be. I went on to appear in scripted and unscripted television shows; I worked as an actor in film; I released music, including my hit “WERQIN' GIRL” (Professional), Photo credits: Degenkolb Entertainment

16 COMPETE march-april 2019

Shangela!

“Uptown Fish,” and I also worked with the House of Edwards on a holiday album.

I’ve toured the world and now have performed on six of the seven continents; Antarctica is the only one remaining. I really have worked hard to create a career based on being the best entertainer that I can be. I also started a business called Say What Entertainment that manages other drag talent from “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” So, with all of that, I’ve been busy, honey! Let’s just say that I’ve been busy working!

C: We absolutely loved you in “Hurricane Bianca” which was such a fun movie. Did you have a good time filming it?

S. The best! I mean I love Bianca Del Rio. They’re great friends off-camera so to be able to bring that chemistry on-camera was easy. It was like hanging out with your buddy and there just happened to be a script, as well.

C: Will you be returning in “Hurricane Bianca 2: From Russia with Hate?” Please tell us you’ll pop out of a box again.

S. Stay tuned! You should know that no box is ever safe with Shangela around!

C: Compete Magazine is focused on sports and we’re crazy about Adam Rippon and Gus Kenworthy who we think stole the show at the Winter Olympics. If you had to pick one of their sports, which would you choose?

S. Oh, I’d want to be a figure skater and I’d want to be pulling my good ole’ Adam Rippon realness!

You get to wear fabulous costumes, you get to have a sickening musical number and you get to fully perform – and that’s what I want to do … as long as no one tries to “I, Tonya” me.

C: So what do you think of our latest LGBTQ+ sports icons, Gus and Adam?

S. I celebrate every person who is living their truth to the fullest. And to know that Gus and Adam are

part of our queer community and represented us so well in Korea, I was thrilled.

But you know who my real crush was? She wasn’t even competing in the Olympics but she was there as a commentator, and that was Lesley Jones. I watched most of the Winter Olympics not just for the athletes but also for her commentary because she is HILARIOUS … and I think we would have so much fun on a date together. I just love her to death.

C: After “All Stars 3,” what will you do?

S. Shangela has been busy for the last six years and she doesn’t plan on slowing down now.

With regards to television and film, first of all I will be appearing in the sequel to “Hurricane Bianca,” “Hurricane Bianca 2” out this summer. I have a role in the new film, “A Star is Born” with Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper that will be out this fall in theaters, so I would love for people to go and check that out.

Also, I have new music starting with my newest single, “Pay Me” – a dance track featuring producer Ryan Skyy that will be available on iTunes anywhere music is sold. In addition to that, I’m going to be continuing touring the world this year and I have a brand new comedy show called “Shangela is Shook” in which I’ll be touring in the U.K. and later this year in Australia, with more to be added.

From all of us at Compete and from our readers, we thank our superstar entertainer Shangela for taking time out of her busy schedule to talk with us. If you’d like to learn more about her, please check out her website at shangela.com.

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FEATURE

IN

Richmond 's

OUTDOORS DAVID SH

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of Kate Thomps

on

o fully appreciate the menu of James Beard Award-nominee David Shannon’s Oregon Hill eatery (which, according to Condé Nast Traveler resembles a collaboration between Liberace, Andy Warhol and Nick Cave), you have to know and appreciate Richmond, Virginia. “Vegan Orgy on Texas Beach” isn’t just a banger of crispy papadoms or papadums if you prefer. This is a nod to a place – one of Shannon’s favorite spots along Richmond’s James River.

And that’s just one of the innumerable gems tucked away in what’s fast becoming one of the hottest small-to-mid-sized cities in the U.S. After landing on Forbes’ “10 Coolest Cities to Visit in 2018,” earning the #2 spot on TIME’s 2017 ranking of the “25 Cities Where Millennials are Moving,” and joining Trivago’s list of “10 Under the ‘Gaydar’ LGBTQ Cities,” it’s safe to say the River City’s secret is out.

ANNON

Photo courtesy

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BY RYAN EVANS

OUT IN RICHMOND'S OUTDOORS

Shenandoah National Park

Richmond Pocahontas State Park

Ri Photo courtesy of

chmond Region

Tourism

Virginia Beach

If anything could outshine this historic capital city’s national acclaim for its buzz-worthy art and restaurant scenes, it would have to be its robust network of outdoor offerings. In 2012 Outside Magazine named Richmond “Best River Town” in the U.S. Within the city limits there are dozens of parks, hiking trails and other recreational spots along the James River and more nearby amazing scenery, from the Dutch Gap Conservation Area and Point of Rocks in Chesterfield County to Echo Lake Park in Henrico.

Just ask Shannon. He grew up ditching school to eat one of Richmond’s legendary Sally Bell’s box lunches in the bamboo reeds at Maymont Park. While he doesn’t get out on the water much these days he swears his boyfriend is on a mission to get him in a kayak soon for the first time since summer camp.

“Most of my kitchen guys love to go fishing along different MBERLAKE SHANNON TI sections of the river from Texas Beach to Brown’s Island,” said Shannon. “I don’t get down as much as I want but my boyfriend is always down there. He is always rowing with Richmond Boat Club or kayaking without me.”

Just two hours south of Washington, D.C. and situated between Shenandoah National Park and Virginia Beach, the convenient location of the Richmond region means you don’t have to go far if getting outdoors is on your adventure agenda.

Visitors are sure to have riotous fun at Shannon’s celebrated L’Opposum or the ever-popular local favorite, drag brunch at Godfrey’s. But good food and creative

culture are only a few of the lures that bring first-timers in and convince repeat visitors to return again and again.

Part of being in Richmond is being outside in Richmond. Whether you’re up for rafting the nation’s only class IV urban rapids, conquering the James River park system or Pocahontas State park trails on a mountain bike or simply strolling Richmond’s Carytown shopping district, the city and surrounding counties have something for everyone.

Beer aficionados will appreciate the region’s 31 craft breweries that are made easy to locate and visit thanks to the Richmond Beer Trail. Recently garnering accolades from both Hop Culture and Vinepair, Richmond’s #1 status as a craft beer destination comes naturally. Stone Brewing Co. calls Richmond its east coast home, and Hardywood Park Craft Brewery just opened its second location on the far west end of the region, just past the Short Pump Town Center.

Historic Hollywood Cemetery, home to the final resting places of six Virginia governors and presidents John Tyler and James Monroe, is one of Shannon’s favorite walking spots when he needs a break from overseeing his restaurant’s eclectic pours of Shiny Blue Ball, French Tickler or Laura Palmer cocktails.

There’s a catwalk above a pipeline running along the James River less than a mile from his restaurant that’s Shannon’s second favorite river area, saying that “The pipeline is particularly cool when the herrings are nesting.” And within eyeshot on any given day revelers might be sunning on the river’s rocks, rafting down the rapids or climbing the walls and boulders on Belle Isle just across the James River from Oregon Hill.

Whether you’re planning a weekend trip to Richmond or looking to plant roots, there’s plenty to fall in love with here. Locals talk about the city’s boomerang

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OUT IN RICHMOND'S OUTDOORS

Richmond... fast becoming one of the hottest small-to-midsized cities in the U.S. After landing on Forbes’ “10 Coolest Cities to Visit in 2018,” earning the #2 spot on TIME’s 2017 ranking of the “25 Cities Where Millennials are Moving,” and joining Trivago’s list of “10 Under the ‘Gaydar’ LGBTQ Cities,” it’s safe to say the River City’s secret is out. effect. Plenty of young urbanites move away only to return after they find everything they’re looking for is right where they left it.

For natives such as U.S. Army veteran Ayana Obika, a permanent return to the area was not always inevitable.

But ultimately the city’s energy kept pulling her right back in. “I raised my children here and still find myself in awe at just how beautiful Richmond is,” Obika said.

A member of the board of directors of Diversity Richmond and founder of Gratitude Rising Events, Obika grew up crisscrossing historic Bryan Park in the city’s northside where she admired the landmark site’s hundreds of thousands of azaleas. This spot, like so many of the Richmond region’s beautiful attractions has a complex history. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the site where Gabriel Prosser, an enslaved blacksmith at a nearby farm planned a slave insurrection later dubbed Gabriel’s Rebellion.

The city’s challenging history is not lost on Obika who launched a walking tour of historical architecture she calls “Built by Blacks,” after a book by Selden Richardson.

She got the idea on one of countless strolls with her beloved Chihuahua, Miss Tina. “The architecture is just so amazing in every neighborhood,” said Obika, “you just have to look past the unloved parts and imagine what it might have been. It’s gorgeous. And if you don’t get out of your car you miss that stuff.”

Obika says she finds even the map of the area beautiful and she shares that beauty with anyone who will listen. “From the parks and trails to the arts and dining scene, there’s just so much to go and see,” she said. “Richmond’s a beautiful place. It really is such a beautiful place from Downtown Church Hill to the River.”

Joining Shannon and Obika as unofficial Richmond ambassadors are Shannon Timberlake and Lance Johnson and all find time to unwind outside.

That can mean powering through downtown, adjacent trails in Forest Hill that connect to the Buttermilk loop or seeking a quieter escape to Pocahontas State Park or Henricus Historical Park in Chesterfield County.

Timberlake said she plans her adventures around the season. “I prefer the river when it’s quiet so my favorite time to go is around wintertime,” she said. “During the fall and summer, I love to get out water rafting and water boarding. Finishing AYANA OBIKA

Photo courtesy of Richmond Region Tourism

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hmond Reg tesy of Ric

While the region doesn’t have any major league professional sports teams, Johnson notes that the Richmond region is home to several college athletic programs that carry more than their weight in supporters. Johnson himself has spent decades working at the University of Richmond and said he’s enjoyed watching college athletes ascend to the ranks of the NFL. “Instead of hoping for more,” said Johnson, “we should really celebrate what we have. We host events and championships across every sport and level, and it says a lot that they chose the Richmond area.”

The city was on international display in September 2015 when Richmond played host to the UCI Road World Cycling Championships and drew half million people to the region. Almost 800 representatives from 76 national federations and 40 trade teams registered for the events which took place over nine days. LANCE JOHNS ON Working every year to expand its dedicated bike lanes, Richmond has gone out of its way to embrace a longstanding bike culture and last year installed a bike share program with more than a dozen locations across the city where anyone can rent a ride 24/7. Take a spin through the city then head over to the Virginia Capital Trail, a beautiful and scenic 52-mile trail connecting Richmond and Williamsburg along the historic Route 5 corridor. Guided bike tours launch from all points around the city. Check out visitrichmondva. com for contact information.

“You have to just get out and do something,” Johnson said. “Sporting is such a great route to meeting

Photo cour

any day out with any one of the amazing restaurants we have around town is another great way to enjoy the region. Overall, I really enjoy just walking through the city and going on neighborhood food tours. There is so much history mixed with all the new businesses to walk through, it always makes for an interesting time.”

Timberlake shares her love of trail walking with out-of-town guests and includes brunch and breweries in Scott’s Addition, a former industrial park turned millennial paradise replete with a handcrafted popsicle spot and a barcade (yes, a barcade). “After all that, strolling through Carytown is always a treat on the weekends, both for people watching and getting plenty of walking in,” she said. “The outdoor patio seating is a plus.”

Carytown also is home to Babe’s, a Richmond LGBTQ icon that bills itself online as the city’s “Everybody’s bar.” It hosts some of the best drag nights in Richmond and even has an outdoor volleyball court.

The city also houses a professional soccer team, the Richmond Kickers.

Other favorite local sporting activities include taking in a minor-league Flying Squirrels baseball game or checking out the James River Women’s Rugby League.

Among Timberlake’s favorites to watch are the River City Rollergirls, a badass group of women any one of whom could probably make John Cena cry.“It is definitely something to see,” Timberlake said of the derby.

Johnson, a sports therapist, is a fan of both spontaneous and organized activities ranging from social leagues to solo walks around Maymont Park.

He’s affiliated with the Richmond Volleyball Club which includes both straight and gay leagues. He’s also part of the Richmond Stonewall Kickball League that came to Richmond in 2017 and has continued a steady growth.

Stonewall’s decision to expand to Richmond was a big deal for the local LGBTQ community and allies, according to Johnson.

ion Tourism

OUT IN RICHMOND'S OUTDOORS

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OUT IN RICHMOND'S OUTDOORS Richmond has gone out of its way to embrace a longstanding bike culture and last year installed a bike share program with more than a dozen locations across the city where anyone can rent a ride 24/7.

new people and getting out, from recreation leagues to just spending an afternoon walking the trails, Richmond’s social scene is so tied to the outdoors. Just explore and see what the city has to offer.”

When the sun goes down and you’re ready for something different, you’ll quickly realize there is a reason Richmond’s dining and arts scenes are so vibrant.

The abundance of so many amazing options has led to restaurants collaborating instead of competing; building off one another, they’re working to create a better overall dining scene for locals and visitors.

“We have an incredible concentration of talent and energy with people of all levels of experience who are committed to doing something amazing and unique,” Shannon said. “The fact that we have so many options is what has contributed to my success. The more creative people you have, the more cool and unique dining there will be.” At night Johnson likes to take in live indie music and bounce around the city’s network of watering holes.

“Whatever you want to find, you can, and it’s all within walking distance of each other,” he said.

During the day, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) is a perfect break from strolling the city’s Fan District. Ranking as one of the top comprehensive art museums in the U.S., thanks to its great outdoor patio and seating area you can enjoy The E. Claiborne and Lora Robins Sculpture Garden. You might even run into David Shannon while he’s working out his next menu.

“Sitting outside the VMFA is a great way to get outside around some great culture,” said Shannon. “The museum is a great escape for me throughout the day, even for just a quick, 30-minute break. Whether it’s to clear my mind or work on menus, it seems to always help.”

No matter what you’re looking for – kayaking, rafting, hiking, urban hiking, mountain biking and road biking, recreation leagues and more parks than you can count – Richmond either has it or is close to it.

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Some are a short walk away and some are a short drive, but they’re all close by. The best part of living here is discovering your favorite spot. Unlike many areas that sell themselves on their outdoor activities with little else to offer, the Richmond region includes a world class dining and an arts scene with more murals and galleries than you could visit in a weekend.

There is no surprise most people who leave always come back. And those who come just to visit tend to stay.

UPDATE!

We are pleased to share with you that Richmond continues its OUT and PROUD reputation by hosting the 2019 Compete Sports Diversity Jubilee, the first of its kind east coast multi-sport tournament. On May 17-19 the city, along with OutRVA, Richmond Regional Tourism and Compete Sports Diversity, are hosting the inaugural Jubilee.

And in keeping with the Jubilee’s motto, “Come Out and Have a Ball,” you are invited to be part of this new event.

The event, in partnership with Compete Sports Diversity, ASANA Softball, International Gay & Lesbian Football Association (IGFLA) and USA Dodgeball brings a weekend of sports and camaraderie. According to tournament director Jared Garduno, SDLT, “We encourage all our participants—whether a member of the LGBTQ+ community or not—to simply participate as their authentic selves and have a really good time.” He added he already knows that “hundreds of athletes will invade Richmond to participate in softball, soccer or dodgeball and we are planning on adding more sports.”

In charge of local arrangements is Jerrine Lee, Sports Development Manager at Richmond Region Tourism. No stranger to being an athlete herself or to working in the sports field, she says local excitement and anticipation are high – everyone is asking “how can we help.” After already achieving an HRC Municipal Equality Index (MEI) of 94 percent, she says they’re hoping the Jubilee takes it to their goal of 100 percent.

MVP

TEAM COMPETE 2017 MVP:

TODD TRAMP Photos Courtesy of Todd Tramp

24 COMPETE march-april 2019

b Raymond Photo by Ro

It's no wonder Todd Tramp was chosen as Compete's MVP for 2017; he won yet another buckle for All-Around Cowboy last month at the International Gay Rodeo Association’s (IGRA) World Gay Rodeo Finals (WGRF) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In the last three years Todd has won 16 of 18 competitions for the best all- around cowboy; in 2017 he’s won five in a row, although IGRA counts this last one as a 2018 win. Overall, he holds 10 international titles.

In order to qualify for the All-Around Cowboy competition, a contestant must participate in roping, speed and rough stock events.

Todd participates in 10 different events with bull riding being his favorite. But he’s got a great “pole” horse so pole bending is also one of his favorites because he says that he and his horse "really like each other and have fun competing.” But his best event is chute dogging where he’s an international champion.

With the buckles and ribbons he’s won over the years now numbering in the 400-500 range (he’s lost count), he continues to send some of them to a group in his home state of Iowa that provides riding lessons for special need kids to use for prizes.

Todd and his husband Marty "Bubba" Junkins own a 30-acre property outside of Kansas City, Missouri where Todd has room for his beloved horses and a 4,000-square-foot fully-equipped gym that houses his semi-retirement business, Todd Tramp’s Total Fitness (aka, Trooper Town). He has a group of 50 women and a waiting list but he only offers classes five-days-a week so he has plenty of time to enjoy his rodeo passion.

www.CompeteNetwork.com

COMPETE

25

SPORTS

Photos courtesy of Phelps Media Group

GAY POLO LEAGUE SPREADS SPORT AND INCLUSION ACROSS BORDERS

BY ELAINE WESSEL

L

ong regarded as one of the most festive and spirited polo events of the year, the Gay Polo League’s (GPL) flagship event returned to Wellington, Florida the first full weekend in April in the form of the 9th Annual Land Rover Palm Beach International Gay Polo Tournament. And once again it enthralled thousands of attendees with the sport of kings, a lavish tailgate competition and a positive message. Promoting the ideals of diversity and inclusion, GPL’s annual tournament is recognized as the only LGBTQ polo event in the world, uniting players and revelers from around the world for an amazing day of sport and charity.

An annual destination event, the 2018 GPL tournament once again attracted top polo professionals from the U.S., South Africa and Argentina to quarterback the four teams while non-professional players represented 10 additional nations from across the globe, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, England and Italy, among others. A sport without borders, the international polo gathering consisted of both LGBTQ and straight or ally athletes playing with and against each other.

“I am so thrilled with the incredible response we receive to the GPL Tournament each year. The growth of the event since its inception is astounding, and we are honored to have reached a level where GPL provides sport and entertainment experiences while spreading a

26 COMPETE march-april 2019

message of acceptance,” said Chip McKenney, president and founder of GPL. As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, GPL strives to take advantage of the widespread reach of its tournament by giving back to the local community. The evening before the final polo matches, GPL and its guests got colorful and creative with "GPL Polotini Presents Wigstock." This hair-raising event benefits Compass LGBTQ Youth Services in areas of education, health and homelessness. Its mission is to diminish stereotypes by challenging long-standing misconceptions about the character of the LGBTQ community. Net funds raised from the party with a purpose will be used to purchase several new computers for the Youth Center as well as

Photo courtesy of Victory Cup NYC

health kits and food and shelter vouchers for at-risk youth.

Although GPL invites players and attendees to its home in the Sunshine State each April, the league has racked up thousands of frequent flyer miles participating in and hosting other tournaments in different corners of the world. In December 2016, the same year in which GPL celebrated its tenth anniversary as a United States Polo Association-designated polo club, the organization fittingly hosted its first international tournament in Argentina, the Mecca of polo. Eight members of GPL had their passports stamped for a chance to play and learn from four-time Argentine Open champion Eduardo Heguy, one of the best in the sport while also spreading the message of equality that GPL fosters.

GPL has twice competed in the Victory Cup, one of America's largest equestrian events and polo matches, and in 2015 GPL was victorious in the Victory Cup Polo Match held in Austin, Texas. Invited once again in 2017, the team made the journey as a repeat contender to Governors Island, just 800 yards from Lower Manhattan to compete below the iconic skyline in the signature Victory Cup Fall Classic Polo Match.

Looking forward toward the autumn of 2018, GPL is slated to add to its international repertoire as the host of a new tournament at the Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club just outside London, England. This upcoming tournament will solidify GPL’s event presence in three continents, no small feat for a niche sporting organization.

After the incredible turnout and abundant praise for the 2017 four-day event, the Annual International Gay Polo Tournament was honored as the LGBTQ Sporting Event of the Year at the Connect Conference - Sports Marketplace held in New Orleans, Louisiana in August 2017. For the first time in the conference’s history, the Sports Tourism Excellence Awards included the "LGBTQ Sporting Event of the Year" category, making GPL the inaugural winner, a testament to the event's impact on not just the local polo community but also the national LGBTQ and sporting communities at large.

Founded in 2006, GPL is committed to providing its members around the world an enjoyable, supportive and competitive experience regardless of age, ability level, profession or background. While some players have been competing for years in the saddle, plenty have never sat on horse before joining the league.

“What began as a small club has grown into something bigger than just its members. We now offer world-class events

to

our

attendees

and

have

attained a status where we are able to use our events as a platform to provide for the LGBTQ community.”

www.CompeteNetwork.com

COMPETE

27

SPORTS “Our goal is to provide a safe place for active people to enjoy the excitement of competition and the camaraderie that comes with team sports. We welcome everyone from the LBGTQ community and beyond to participate and compete, or just cheer us on from the sidelines,” commented McKenney. “Our common ground lies in our shared desire to meet and engage with other individuals while enjoying the challenging and beautiful sport of polo.”

Boasting a long list of loyal players and spectators from around the world, GPL and its tournaments have grown beyond the boundaries of its native South Florida.

Now both a host of and a participant in polo tournaments spanning the globe, the LGBTQ organization is continuing to break barriers through sharing its message of diversity, inclusion and acceptance. In 2019 GPL’s crown jewel will return to the winter horse capital of Wellington, Florida for its 10th Annual International Gay Polo Tournament, eagerly celebrating a decade of success.

UPDATE!

It’s now time for the 10th Annual Land Rover Palm Beach International Gay Polo Tournament Presented by RSM US. It gallops back to the social scene, April 4-7, 2019, hosted once again at the International Polo Club Palm Beach. As Gay Polo League (GPL) festivities rage

Photo courtesy Gay Polo League: L-R: Sugar Erskine, Gus Larrosa, Margaret Hamilton Duprey, Chip McKenney, Pete Grover, Matt Coppola

on, Friday’s “GPL Polotini Presents WIGSTOCK!” party is the place to be! WIGSTOCK! is a rousing, poolside cocktail party with food stations, full bar and electrifying entertainment.

GPL has become a platform for human rights and the Friday, April 5 WIGSTOCK! party is a fundraiser this year for SAGE, the LGBTQ+ organization dedicated to providing advocacy, services, and support for LGBTQ+ elders. The net proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction are going to SAGE. In fact, presenting sponsor RSM US has written a letter describing why it has chosen to sponsor GPL. For more information on the Gay Polo League, please visit www.gaypolo.com.

The Gay Polo League (GPL) is an international sporting league that brings together the LGBTQ+ community and its allies who have a passion for the sport. Each April the International Polo Club in Wellington, Florida hosts the GPL’s annual Gay Polo Tournament. This unique family-friendly event draws a diverse crowd from around the globe.

The tournament also raises money for charities that support that support the LGBTQ+ community. Last year GPL donated all proceeds to COMPASS, an LGBTQ+ organization focused on promoting acceptance and diminishing stereotypes. This year the organization is aligning itself with SAGE, an LGBTQ+ group focused on advocacy and services for LGBTQ+ seniors.

One of GPL’s largest supporters, RSM US LLP (RSM) sees this as an opportunity to collaborate with LGBTQ+ organizations to break down stereotypes while having a fabulous time.

Most importantly, it provides a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to participate in a team sport, an opportunity that many members of the community did not have growing up.

“Our decision to sponsor GPL started out of support for an organization that one of our clients was passionate about,” said Mike Lin, manager in RSM’s Wealth Management Division.

“Over time, our relationship with GPL grew as we learned more about its charitable mission and the potential to align with our commitment to diversity and inclusion.”

As a global leader in audit, tax and consulting services, RSM focuses on promoting a culture of acceptance and strives to set an example for its peers in the broader corporate community. “At RSM we demonstrate our core values of respect, integrity, teamwork, excellence and inclusion every day through our interactions with one another, with our clients and with our communities,” said Kerensa Butler, partner, Southeast Private Equity leader and national Pride employee network group leader. “We’re honored to be a part of the Gay Polo League.”

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ATHLETE

DOUBLE TROUBLE: GAY and STRAIGHT MILAN TWINS COMPETING IN HOMETOWN GAY BOWL

BY DIRK SMITH

I

f you haven’t already seen the publicity, the 2017 Gay Bowl is going to be quite a big deal!

The Gay Bowl, an annual event informally dubbed the “Super Bowl of Gay Flag Football” is the flagship event of the NGFFL (National Gay Flag Football League). But it’s not new; it’s their 17th Gay Bowl since the tournament began in 2002. And Boston is hosting the event for the second time this year.

But what makes this event more remarkable is the sponsorship from Boston’s professional sports teams. For the first time in the history of LGBTQ+ sports, a professional sports team is publicly sponsoring an LGBTQ+ sporting event.

Hold the phone, though; it’s not just one professional sports team, it’s all five. With the New England Patriots (NFL) taking the lead as a presenting sponsor, the Boston Red Sox (MLB), the Boston Bruins (NHL), the Boston Celtics (NBA) and the New England Revolution (MLS) are all bronzelevel sponsors for the 2017 Gay Bowl!

The significance of this year’s Gay Bowl has not been lost on the Milan brothers, twins born and raised in Boston who have been preparing to compete at this year’s event. We caught up with them and they have quite their own story to tell.

You

see,

while

they

both

play

on the “same team,” they don’t necessarily

play

for

the

“same

team.” Translation? One is gay and the other one is straight.

30 COMPETE march-april 2019

Patrick Lentz Photography & Design

ATHLETE

Twins Shane and Austin Milan are also teammates on the “Hancocks,” their team that is part of FLAG (Friends, Lesbians and Gays) Flag Football, Boston’s inclusive flag football league that is hosting the 2017 Gay Bowl. The Milan’s background in football goes all the way back to playing tackle football in high school and being part of an intramural flag football league in college. The brothers explained that: “As a twin, we grew up constantly competing with and against each other. People are always comparing the two of you in everything you do; academics, athletics, etc., so we always fought to be better than each other. I think that it really helped us bring out the best in each other, and I'm happy that we get to do it again.”-Shane Milan (It was easy to see the twin in each brother come out since they answered my question almost exactly the same, despite separate interviews.)

Shane was the first brother to get involved with FLAG at the encouragement of a friend and co-worker.

Shortly after returning to Boston for a new job he quickly found himself embraced in the welcoming camaraderie and community of the LGBTQ+ Flag Football League of Boston. For the first year Shane was involved with the league, Austin would often attend his brother’s games as a spectator and athletic supporter or, as he puts it: “I had gone to a few of his games to see him in action and find out why he was so excited to be playing. He encouraged me to join and that following spring we played on the same team together in my first season.”Austin Milan Gay Bowl 2017 is Shane’s fourth season and third major tournament while Austin’s third season and first tournament with FLAG. As a straight man playing for a predominantly LGBTQ+ league, Austin had this to say about his experience: “Having played in other organized leagues I can say that FLAG is rivaled by few in terms of inclusiveness, community pride and level of competition.”- Austin Milan There is something to be said about the high level of competition and PRIDE that LGBTQ+ sports teams and leagues have in common, something found across all sports. FLAG Flag Football signifies this in their moniker, “Friends, Lesbians and Gays.” It represents the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere found not only in FLAG, it also represents that for all LGBTQ+ sports. With this attitude as a foundation, the Milan twins and other athletes can

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practice, train and play to their full potential as athletes and achieve their personal best for their teams at Gay Bowl 2017.

“I know The Hancocks, the team my brother and I play for has shown a new level of dedication this year.

There are a lot of great teams in this year's field but we think we have what it takes to win it all. And we can't wait to have the opportunity to prove it on the field.”Shane Milan With the gauntlet already thrown down, the 2017 Gay Bowl being held October 5-8 in Boston is certainly going to be one to keep up with as the athletes and teams head there ready to compete for the glory of winning this latest Gay Bowl. And big kudos go to the organizing committee who brought the Gay Bowl to Boston this year and also managed to get all five major professional sports teams in the city as sponsors. They have certainly set the stage for an amazing tournament.

But on a higher level they are also paving the way for the future of LGBTQ+ sports by organizing a high quality, competitive, inclusive and fun tournament that is going to set the bar high for all events to follow. With the recognition coming from multiple professional sports leagues, it gives LGBTQ+ sports and its athletes the visibility that both have always deserved.

UPDATE!

Get geared up for Gay Bowl XIX being played October 10-13 in New York City and hosted by the New York Gay Football League. www.gaybowl.org.

SPORTS DIVERSITY

DOCUMENTARIAN DANIEL KOENIG FOCUSES ON PARA-ROWING

BY HARRY ANDREW

W

ith a very competitive nature, Daniel Koenig was always involved in various sports growing up in Cisco, Texas. But it wasn’t until he went away to college that he started having some real success as an athlete. During his freshman year at the University of Oklahoma he saw a flier advertising try outs for the school’s crew team and did very well; 10 years later and rowing is still one of his greatest passions.

Following his graduation from college he began working in the film industry in various positions, both narrative and commercial that he very much enjoyed. But Koenig’s ultimate dream was to produce his own feature documentary. Now living in Phoenix, in the summer of 2013 film jobs had dried up. He found himself sitting in his room wondering how long until another film would come along when he had an epiphany: he asked himself, “Why am I sitting here waiting for someone else to have an idea? Why is my career dependent upon someone else’s pro-activity?”

" I think sport can be a great unifier because it’s something everyone can relate to and hopefully, through that common interest people will realize that we’re not all that different after all. ” It wasn’t long after that he created Power 10 Films, named for a rowing term. Typically called by the boat’s coxswain, Power 10 means that for the next 10 strokes you’re going to pull with all your strength, give it everything you’ve got to overtake your opponent or finish the race strong. “I felt that was an appropriate name for my company,” he said “and thus began a four- year documentary endeavor.

Because of his familiarity with the rowing world, Koenig was aware of a division known as para-rowing, rowing categories for people with disabilities. A very new addition to the world rowing scene, it wasn’t very well known to many people outside the small group of pararowers so he decided to make a film featuring a group of these individuals as they trained and competed for a spot on the U.S. National Rowing Team.

“I credit my rowing experience with a lot of the film’s success,” said Koenig. “Because of my knowledge and skills in rowing, I was able to relate to the people I was filming and understand the difficulties they were undergoing.”

In fact he became a training partner when the cameras

weren’t rolling and a cheerleader during the races, saying “Had I not had a rowing background, I’m sure the film would not have near the depth we were able to capture.”

Titled “Trials: Finding the Medal,” his documentary follows four elite para-rowers as they train and compete for a spot on the U.S. National Rowing Team within the para-rowing categories. Throughout the film, Koenig says that each rower is faced with difficult decisions and experiences that test their strength, knowing all the while that only the fastest will make the team. Filming at a variety of rowing locations across the U.S., the film showcases the beauty and power of rowing while giving a behind-the-scenes look into the selections process for the national rowing team.

Finally complete, the film has screened in over a dozen cities across the U.S. and won best documentary in a couple of film festivals. Looking back on his journey, he says he met some incredible people. They are very different from each other and live extremely different lifestyles, but one thing that unites them all is their love for sport. “I think sport can be a great unifier because it’s something everyone can relate to and hopefully, through that common interest people will realize that we’re not all that different after all. Whether it be disability, sexuality, we all want to be competitive and have a good time. AND beat the guy in the next lane.”

Koenig says “Trials: Finding the Medal” is now available for anyone to see on iTunes and AmazonPrime or go to www.TrialsDoc.com.

Photos courtesy of Daniel Koenig

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FACES OF SPORTS

JEN WELTER’S COACHING IS MORE THAN

XS OS

BY CONNIE WARDMAN ince the release model, her personal battle was to play the game she’s of her book last loved since she was a child, not specifically to be a month, “Play Big: warrior for women’s causes. In a recent interview with Lessons in Being Glamour she has highlighted that fact: Limitless From the First … if there are no women in the room and the door is Woman to Coach in the locked, it takes a guy to unlock the door for you and NFL,” Dr. Jen Welter let you in. I think we have to get better at working has once again been together in that regard, as opposed to always feeling in the media spotlight like we need to crash the door down. You don't need for her remarkable to bring out the ax; sometimes you can just knock. accomplishments as both And sometimes guys will open the door for you, but a football player and an for so many women who felt like they had to fight NFL coach. While she is a so hard, we forget that they may be allies. Men have wonderful role model for taught me that because I couldn't have done it any young girls and women other way. wanting to emulate her, There are, according to Welter some terrific women players who would qualify to move forward in "… if there are no women in the Welter’s coaching goes beyond the pro football; the problem room and the door is locked, it Xs and Os of game play. She believes she sees is the lack of takes a guy to unlock the door in actually talking to someone and personal connections for you and let you in. I think getting to know him or her as a women have within the person. league. The positive result we have to get better at working In a world that often expects of all her recent publicity together in that regard, as an either/or response to a hot button is that she has a number of opposed to always feeling like we issue from its heroes and sheroes, opportunities to work with need to crash the door down. " Welter brings a gentle but powerful new partners. For example, reminder that those people society in partnership with the NFL has placed on a pedestal are still Alumni, Welter is hosting just people who have good days and bad days … just a 12-city tour of youth football camps for girls around like everyone else. This includes professional football the country where the girls will get coaching from both players in the NFL. While she is definitely an advocate powerful women football players as well as retired for women in sports, her personal philosophy is that NFL players. By passing along her experience and everyone has a place to shine. connections, Welter is moving the game she loves into With a doctorate in psychology, she’s treated her a more diverse and inclusionary sport where other girls male teammates as well as the men she’s coached with and women who also love the game can have an equal empathy as fellow human beings, not just as men. As a footing with the men. player herself, that’s how she would want to be treated.

More than just a coach, Welter is really a “people To use her terminology, she’s played down in their cleats whisperer.” By talking with people to understand rather and understands that positive movement forward in than to judge them, by treating athletes as people football as well as in life isn’t simply a woman versus rather than performers, she’s leading us away from man proposition. hero worship and a divisive we/they mentality, instead As the person who broke the barrier in an allmoving us all into a place where acceptance and diversity male professional sport, Welter has approached the level the playing field so everyone, in her words, “has a men on her journey as allies rather than foes. While place to shine."

Photo courtesy of Alexis Levi Sports & Entertainment Group she enthusiastically accepts her status as a female role

S

36 COMPETE march-april 2019

SPORTS DIVERSITY

“Be who you needed when you were younger,”

Chris Mosier

Blazing a Trail for Trans Athletes

BY CONNIE WARDMAN

There has been a growing awareness of transgender athletes over the past couple of years, thanks in particular to professional MMA fighter Fallon Fox and triathlete and sprint duathlete Chris Mosier, Compete’s 2013 Athlete of the Year. Mosier won't be competing in this year's Olympic Games since the duathlon isn't an Olympic sport. The recent change in International Olympic Committee (IOC) competition guidelines for transgender athletes that no longer requires gender reassignment surgery and two years of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) wouldn’t be complete without including his role in the change.

Every day Mosier says he reads the following quote, “Be who you needed when you were younger,” a sentiment that fuels the reason he is willing to be open about his transition. He’s not looking for that elusive fifteen minutes of fame; he’s paying it forward, being the transgender athlete role model he looked for and couldn’t find when he was younger.

What put the IOC rule change process into overdrive was Mosier’s seventh-place finish in the men’s 35-39 age category at the Duathlon National Championship in June 2015, earning him a spot on the national men’s team competing for Team USA at the 2016 World Duathlon Championship in Spain this June. As the first transgender man to make Team USA, the U.S. national men’s team that matches his gender identity as opposed to his assigned sex at birth, it still wasn’t guaranteed that Mosier would be eligible to compete with his teammates in the world finals.

He’s always been an athlete and an extremely competitive one who never has been willing to be a “middle of the pack” competitor. Clearly, Mosier has

38 COMPETE march-april 2019

been able to compete as a man so it’s very important to him that he follows the rules and regulations of any meet in which he’s participating so, in his words, “there will never be a case where I win something and people contest it.”

Once he qualified for Team USA, he contacted the International Triathlon Union (ITU), host of the upcoming world championships for a status check. He ultimately learned that they follow the IOC rules that would exclude him from the duathlon (a duathlon being a run-bike-run format as opposed to a triathlon format of swim-bike-run) competition However, once the IOC revised its guidelines, Mosier only needed to ensure that the ITU would abide by the revisions in order for him to compete. If they didn’t, he already had engaged legal counsel — and started a GoFundMe page to help pay for it – to contest a potential negative decision, something that now doesn’t appear to be needed. And the ultimate result of his activism to change the IOC requirements used by so many international, national and local sports organizations means that transgender athletes will now be able to compete and win legitimately in their sports of choice, even in the Olympics.

In an interview last year with Outsports, Mosier said “Many transgender athletes stop competing when they transition categories. I want people to know it is possible to maintain an identity as an athlete and transition. When I was considering transition, I did not see transgender men competing at a high level in the way I aspired to compete. I am excited to be a visible example for other trans athletes or people considering a medical transition.”

GYM BAG

GYM BAG

HOT ITEMS YOU SHOULDN'T DO WITHOUT If Santa (or your favorite elf) didn’t bring you the specialty sports gear you wanted for Christmas, no worries.

Take charge of your 2017 sports performance with some of the newest, best training aids on the market.

APPLE WATCH NIKE+ RUNNING WATCH (42MM)

MERRELL ALL OUT CRUSH TOUGH MUDDER RUNNING SHOES

Apple and Nike have paired up to create a perfect running partner, featuring a built-in GPS to track your runs, a bold, easy-to-read face and a comfortable band that’s both lightweight and breathable.

Its superior display lets you easily view your pace, distance and time with the brightest Apple Watch display and then swipe for even more information, including heart rate and your route. It’s also water resistance-rated to 50 meters. Requires an iPhone 5, 5c, 5s, SE, 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, 7, or 7 Plus and iOS 10 or later and battery life is up to 18 hours It can motivate you with personal reminders based on your run history and the weather that helps you stay focused. You can also share your runs with friends, compete on virtual leaderboards and even send virtual fist bumps to keep each other going. $399 store.nike.com

If you’re into extreme sports like Tough Mudder, these may be the shoes for you. Merrell and Tough Mudder teamed up in 2016 and this resulting veganfriendly special edition shoe is perfect for a mud obstacle race. It provides optimal agility from start to finish yet is easily washable for your next adventure. Its multi-directional lugs help shed mud and provide 360-degree traction and the tread offers drainage and protection from debris while the Unifly™ midsole offers cushioning and stability. Save 15-percent on any U.S.-based 2017 Tough Mudder event using the code: ToughMudderGiftUS2016. Both men’s and women’s Tough Mudder shoes come in two colors and cost $100. www.merrell.com

OAKLEY RADAR PACE™

BEAST ATHLETE

Yet another partnership, this time between Oakley and Intel has produced Radar Pace™, a real-time voiceactivated coaching system for runners and cyclists that creates a unique training program that tracks your performance and coaches you in the moment. It collects and analyzes your personal performance data, including heart rate, power output, speed, cadence, distance and time.

It even automatically adjusts to make up for missed workouts, keeping you on track toward your workout goals. A touch pad on the temples offers control functions with simple taps and swipes for volume, music control, calls from your paired phone and more; the microphone array is enabled for voice commands.

Water resistant up to IPX5, it has interchangeable lenses to optimize performance in any environment; Prizm Road lens to optimize and sharpen visual acuity; impact protection and rechargeable via a USB port. $449. www.oakley.com

The Beast provides real-time data on the quality of your workout that you can watch on your smartphone screen. It measures the power, speed and force you’re using during your weight-lifting sessions, making it perfect for gym-rats and those working on the perfect six-pack abs. All data is collected in the Beast Webportal, the first performance-based training diary for weightlifting. It delivers a set of relevant information based on sports science that is key in helping you reach your training goals faster.

Easy-to-understand metrics help you adjust workouts to your goals and adapt training loads on your daily conditions, thus preventing injuries and overtraining.

The Beast Athlete package comes with a Beast sensor, the wristband, a user’s manual and a micro-USB charging cable. $249. www.thisisbeast.com

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EVENTS: FOR A COMPLETE CALENDAR OF EVENTS PLEASE VISIT WWW.COMPETENETWORK.COM/EVENTS BASKETBALL

April Follies 2019

2019 ChATTAhoochee Doubles Classic

Oakland, Calif., Apr. 27

Atlanta, Mar. 8-10

March Madness 1st & 2nd Rounds

GOLF

2019 Heart of Texas

• South Regional Louisville, Mar. 28-30 • West Regional Anaheim, Mar 28-30 • East Regional Washington, D.C., Mar. 29-31 • Midwest Regional Kansas City, Mar. 29-31

NCAA Women’s Final Four Tampa, Apr. 5-7

2019 NCAA Final Four

Masters Golf Tournament Augusta, Apr. 11-14

HOCKEY NHL Stanley Cup Finals Start days after Apr. 6 final games

NCAA Men’s Frozen Four Buffalo, Apr. 11-13

Austin, Mar. 22-24

Orange Blossom Tennis Championships 2019 Altamonte Spring, Fla., Apr. 6-8

Alamo City Tennis Classic 2019 San Antonio, Apr. 12-14

LA Open 2019 Burbank, Apr. 19-21

Minneapolis, Apr. 5-9

MULTI-SPORTS

VOLLEYBALL

Coady Roundball Classic

Special Olympics World Summer Games

Cincinnati Volleyball Classic

Los Angeles, Apr. 6-7

NBA Championship Playoffs Charlotte, N.C., Apr. 13

Abu Dhabi, UAE, Mar 14-21

POLO

Cincinnati, Mar. 16

Queen Vicki 2019 Vancouver, Mar. 23

BASEBALL

10th Annual International Gay Polo Tournament

MLB Opening Day

Wellington, Fla., Apr. 6

Asst. Cities, Mar. 28

RODEO

Big Apple XXXVI

Rodeo in the Rock

Midwest Crossroads Tournament

Little Rock, Apr. 26-28

Champaign, Ill., Apr. 13

RUNNING

Lone Star Volleyball Classic XXX

Boston Marathon

Charm City Volleyball 34

CAR RACING Pennzoil 400 Las Vegas, Mar. 3

TicketGuardian 500 Avondale, Az., Mar. 10

Auto Club 400 Fontana, Calif., Mar. 17

STP 500 Martinsville, Va., Mar. 24

O’Reilly Auto Parts 500 Fort Worth, Mar. 31

Food City 500

Boston, Apr. 15

Big D- Easter Bonnet Classic Dallas, Apr. 20-21

Palm Springs Doubles 2019 Rancho Mirage, Mar. 2-3

Geico 500

BNP Paribas Open

42 COMPETE march-april 2019

Baltimore, Apr. 27

NCAA Wrestling Championships

Houston, Mar. 16-17

Richmond, Apr. 13

Albuquerque, Apr. 12-14

Houston, Apr. 19

Lone Star Classic

Toyota Owners 400

Rio Grande Dance Classic

New York City, Apr. 6

WRESTLING

TENNIS

DANCESPORT

Apr. 6

SOFTBALL

Bristol, Tenn., Apr. 7

Lincoln, Ala., Apr. 28

Last Dig in Denver XXII

Indian Wells, Calif., Mar. 4-17

Pittsburgh, Mar 21-23

BEDROOM SPORTS

WATCHING

BY RYAN O’CONNOR, GUEST COLUMNIST

I

am crying! As a thirty-something adult male, I have tears of joy streaming down my face. Did I just win the lottery? Did I just welcome a new child into the world? No. I just walked out of the movie theater.

I met a blind date at the theater. The good news is that he paid for the movie. The bad news is that I paid for the popcorn. That means he was already ahead a few bucks before the movie even started.

I waited a few weeks to see “Love, Simon.” It’s a typical high school love story … with just one twist — Simon is gay.

The hardest thing to believe about this move wasn’t Simon’s sexuality. It was that fact that Simon and his onscreen friends were actual high schoolers. The truth is they are all in their twenties.

I guess that is typical in Hollywood “teen” movies and TV shows. I mean did you ever really believe Patrick Dempsey was a high school student in “Can’t Buy Me Love?" Well, I guess that was slightly more believable than Luke Perry in “Beverly Hills, 90210.”

If you’ve read my column before, you may already know I dated my sister’s boyfriend in high school.

So I think my high school dating life would make a great movie, too. I am not sure who I’d like to play me but Chris Pratt comes to mind (sorry, 90201 fans but Luke Perry is eligible for AARP by now). Yeah, Chris Pratt will do.

But getting back to Simon; the movie was cute. I didn’t just cry at the romantic ending; I also laughed my way through most of it. Watching the movie I was always two steps ahead of the plot. It had the typical plots and twist (I won’t spoil them all here) but we always knew Simon would turn out OK. Well, even more than OK. They now have to set him up for a sequel, right?

RYAN O’CONNER is just a regular guy who is dating in this great big world. His advice comes from personal experience and his advice is for entertainment purposes only. We recommend you consult a physician, counselor or therapist in your area for specific advice about your personal situation.

Otherwise, questions can be submitted to bedroom@competenetwork.com.

44 COMPETE march-april 2019