Gay Games VIII to be held July 31 to August 7

“Columbus is the perfect place to come out,” says Corey Beck, a 28 year old swimmer who is vigorously training to go to Cologne, Germany to represent Ohio Splash at the Gay Games.

Out for only one year, The Ohio State University PhD student in Chemistry, was a high school swimmer, and was on the collage’s varsity crew team for two years. After high school, Corey gained weight, and knew he would need to get in shape if he wanted to compete. Through cardiovascular and strength training, Corey lost 112 pounds, and slimmed down to a lean 168 pounds. Corey is training for several difficult events including 200 Butterfly, 100 Butterfly, 200 IM (individual medley), 1500 Free, and 800 Free. He has a good chance of placing for a medal in his age group.

He joined Ohio Splash, a United States Masters Swimming (USMS) club, to swim in a gay friendly environment, which has allowed him to meet people with a common interest. “They all wanted to stay healthy,” says Beck. He will be swimming with Ohio Splash outdoors this summer at the Jewish Community Center three nights a week. The coached practices allow members to improve their swimming technique to a more advanced level. As a coed club all swimmers at any level are welcome to join. For more information, go to www.Ohiosplash.org.

As a non-profit team, Ohio Splash is in transition, and is moving away from an organization dependent on donations. In fact, the team has 19 members who have registered for the summer season. The goal is still to provide camaraderie and fitness at a reasonable cost. Corey who is a Denver native likes Columbus and the gay community. “People are so open. We are a part of life here and we have done so much for the community.”