More than 200 bowlers representing 26 LGBTQ+ organisations gathered in the Bowlplex at the Marina for the 15th annual Bowling Extravaganza organised by the Brighton LGBTQ+ Sports Society (BLAGSS). To see the venue exclusively used by local LGBTQ+ organisations competing for the trophy was a fantastic sight, said organisers – an ideal time to meet up with old friends and make some new ones.
The event allowed regular bowlers and those who play once a year to come together for a night of fun and team spirit. This year’s winners were Outdoor Lads, followed by Bear-Patrol, and Gay Men’s Chorus in third place. BLAGSS Golf, BLAGSS Bowling, BLAGSS Running and Peer Action occupied 4th, 5th and 6th places.
At this year’s event BLAGSS raised £750 for Lunch Positive as a result of generous contributions from a raffle on the night, with prizes presented from participating teams.
John Moore, BLAGSS chair, said: “This is a fantastic event that brings the local community together. It was not just about taking part as competition was fierce, with Outdoor Lads playing well to defend the title they won last year. We are delighted to support Lunch Positive, which provides valuable services for local people.”
Gary Pargeter, Lunch Positive service manager, said: “Thank you so much to everyone at BLAGSS for staging this wonderful event and for the brilliant funds raised for Lunch Positive. Lunch Positive is a small charity that reaches widely and involves many people with HIV. We help in many ways. This fundraising will directly support our emergency food bank and community food provision for people with HIV.
“This will especially help the development of additional food provision for people with HIV who are insecurely housed, street-homeless, and people experiencing both financial and housing difficulties. These funds raised will have a direct impact on the level of support we provide and the people we reach. We are deeply grateful.”
Next year’s BLAGSS Bowling Extravaganza will take place on Wednesday, February 24, 2021.
BLAGSS bowls every two weeks at the Marina. Come along and join – your first session is free. For more information, visit www.blagss.org
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