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Launch of the official schedule of the Outgames:

52 activities in over 40 venues…The happening of the summer in Montréal!

Mr. Jean-Marc Fournier, Québec Minister for Education, Leisure and Sports, was at the Press Conference.

“We are proud to announce the official schedule of the 1st World Outgames. The Organising Committee and the Montréal community are ready to welcome the expected 250,000 visitors from over 109 countries,” said Ms. Louise Roy, Chief Executive Officer of Montréal 2006, who was joined by Mr. Jean-Marc Fournier, Minister of Education, Sport and Recreation, and Mr. Gérald Tremblay, Mayor of Montréal, for a press conference last Monday.

“We invite all Montrealers to participate in and attend the 1st World Outgames. With 52 activities scheduled, there is something for everyone,” added Ms. Roy. The 1st World Outgames will be held from 26 July to 5 August 2006 on 40 sites around Montréal. Several sport sites, such as the Olympic Stadium, the Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard and the Parc Jean-Drapeau will be used for the event.

This summer at the Outgames in Montréal: “We play for real.”

An impressive 30 of the 35 scheduled sports are sanctioned by Canadian and Quebec sporting federations. These sanctions support the objective of the Outgames to "play for real”, as the organisation’s slogan indicates.

“The majority of events are easily accessible to Montréalers, with an all-access bracelet available for a minimal cost, valid for the duration of the Outgames. As well, tickets for seven events are available now through the ticket sales office at reasonable prices,” added Ms. Roy.

Important support from the City of Montréal for the success of a major international event

Ms. Louise Roy and Mr. Gérald Tremblay, Mayor of Montréal, during the press conference.

“This exceptional international event that brings sports and human rights together will further enhance Montréal’s image as a tolerant, open and inclusive city. We would also like to affirm that Montréal is a welcoming city, one where differences may be freely expressed and respected. Here, all our citizens can live together in harmony, each respecting the others’ individual rights. In hosting an event like this, Montréal will continue to be associated with the advancement of human rights,” said Mayor Gérald Tremblay.

Societé des Transports de Montréal (STM) – Official Transporter of the Outgames

Mayor Tremblay also announced that the Société de transport de Montréal (STM) will partner with the Outgames as the official transporter. The STM, in collaboration with Montréal 2006, will operate a bus shuttle service for athletes and spectators alike who will travel to the Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard for the various competitions.

“Montréal offers comprehensive and efficient public transport systems, permitting the city to host major events like the Outgames and contribute to the success of the many different sport and cultural events the city has to offer,” said Mr. Claude Trudel, President of the Board of Directors of the STM. “I invite all Montrealers and visitors to use public transport to come out and cheer on our athletes and to attend the numerous festivities associated with the Outgames.”