On Saturday 27 June 2026, Kent got its first-ever Pride Games. Founded by Queer Kent Life’s Jordan Chan and run in partnership with the Julie Rose Stadium in Ashford, the Games brought 13 Pride groups from across the county together to compete in sports day activities for the Rainbow Cup – and a £250 prize for the winning Pride organisation.
Teams from Sheppey, Herne Bay, Ramsgate, Maidstone, Broadstairs, Margate and Medway were among those going head to head, with Dame Kelly Holmes judging the Games.
This was never going to be your usual sporting event. Between races there were six drag acts, a Charli XCX tribute, a DJ, stalls and a full parade around the track. Tickets were £5, with under-16s free – because everyone should be able to come along.
The idea behind the Games is simple: lots of LGBTQ+ people grew up feeling that sport wasn’t for them. By putting Kent’s Prides on the track and pitch together, in an environment built to be safe and welcoming, the Games show there’s a place in sport for all of us.
Want to get involved next time – as a player, a Pride team or a volunteer? Ask on the forum or message us on Instagram @queerkentlife.
