#07 - How the Gay Games Transformed My LGBTQ Identity and Pride: From New York ‘94 to Valencia 2026

What if one LGBTQ event could change your life, your sense of belonging, and even your destiny?In this unforgettable episode of the Together Moving Forward Podcast, host Stef Vachon relives the incredible story of how the Gay Games shaped his identity, his skating career, and his connection to the LGBTQ community, and reunites with someone very special from that journey.Stef brings listeners back to New York 1994, where he competed in the first-ever same-sex figure skating event, a moment that became a defining milestone for queer visibility in sports.He’s joined by Charles Sinek, his surprise skating partner who later went on to compete at the 2002 Winter Olympics, and Adrian Hyyrylainen-Trett from the Federation of Gay Games, who shares the mission, inclusivity, and cultural impact behind this global celebration of equality.Together, they reflect on the Games’ powerful message: that everyone, regardless of gender, sexuality, or ability, deserves to belong, compete, and be seen.In this powerful and emotional conversation, you’ll discover:The inspiring history of the Gay Games and why they continue to matter today.How one serendipitous partnership on the ice led to Olympic success, and lifelong friendship.The future of the Gay Games and how they’re transforming inclusivity in sports worldwide.You’ll also hear personal reflections from Stef about how the Games reignited his passion for skating, and saved his life.Tune in now to celebrate resilience, visibility, and the unbreakable spirit of the LGBTQ community through sports, unity, and love.Learn more about the Federation of Gay Games at gaygames.org and join the movement as we look ahead to Gay Games XII in Valencia, Spain (2026).New episodes every Monday and Thursday morning, Eastern Time (ET).More from Together Moving Forward: Click here to contact me through the website to become a featured guest on the podcast or to get more information.Or visit: https://togethermovingforwardpodcast.com Click here to follow us on Instagram.Or click here: https://www.instagram.com/togethermovingforwardpodcast/This podcast celebrates LGBTQ, LGBTQ+ and 2SLGBTQIA+ identity and Pride, sharing stories of Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and nonbinary people who are healing, building resilience, and embracing self-love, self-respect, and community. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.