Gay Softball World Series to open at Chicago's Navy Pier

Fri. July 1, 2011 6:09 AM by GoPride.com News Staff

ben cohen

photo credit // ben-cohen.com

35th Annual Gay Softball World Series Welcomes 4,000+ Athletes and Fans for World’s Largest Annual LGBT Sporting Event

Chicago, IL - The 35th annual Gay Softball World Series (GSWS), which will take place in Chicago from Aug. 29 through Sept. 3, 2011, will open on Monday, Aug. 29 in the Grand Ballroom of history Navy Pier with top-notch talent that includes Rugby World Cup Champion Ben Cohen, the group announced on Thursday.

"We can't think of a better venue and more picturesque setting to host the Opening for the 2011 Gay Softball World Series, said Ted Cappas, President, Series 2011. "We've assembled an incredible program for the evening, which will welcome our athletes and feature national and local entertainers alike."

The entertainment line up also includes Leslie Jordan, star of the stage and screen; Pandora Boxx, Drag Superstar; and hometown favorites Amy Armstrong, singer and entertainer; and Matthew Harvat, DJ and event producer.

Series 2011, Inc., the group organizing the GSWS, says sports enthusiasts and members of the LGBT and greater Chicagoland community are welcome and encouraged to attend the Opening Ceremony for a $10 suggested donation at the door, which will benefit the Ben Cohen "Stand Up" foundation.

The softball tournament, which begins on Tuesday, Aug. 29, is expected to draw over 4,000 athletes and fans to Chicagoland with 175 teams from 43 cities in North America in five divisions: A, B, C, D and Master's. Play occurs at three separate complexes in Schaumburg, Elmhurst and St. Charles, with the championships (Schaumburg Complex) on Saturday, September 3.

For more on the tournament and opening event visit chicagoseries2011.com.
 

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