By Ross Forman
When Ian Spencer attended Gay Games VI in Australia, he 'had a great time, an incredible experience. To share the sporting arena with so many gifted men and women [ was ] a very liberating experience.'
That's a good enough reason for him to be Chicago-bound this summer for Gay Games VII. He will compete in mixed pairs physique.
Marching into the stadium in Sydney for the Opening Ceremony was, he said, his most memorable moment. He also enjoyed taking a cruise through Sydney Harbor, he said. Sydney is a 'beautiful city.'
Spencer said his Chicago goal is simple: 'Achieve [ my ] personal best, have fun .... [ and ] look awesome!'
Here's some more information about Spencer:
Age: 38 ... 39 when the Games start.
Status: Partnered for nine years.
Languages spoken: English and French
Hometown: Toronto
Job: Manager, Affiliate Marketing and Sales ( Cable ) .
High school: Lester B. Pearson C.I.
College: Laval University, Quebec City; Class of 1993.
Gay Games sport ( s ) : Mixed pairs physique
All-Time Favorite Sport: Volleyball
All-Time Favorite Team: None
All-Time Favorite Athlete: Mark Spitz. 'I was tremendously impressed by his ability.'
Favorite Movie: 'I can watch the Star Wars movies over and over and over. I also was moved by Brokeback Mountain; I connected with the movie on many levels. It is now my all-time favorite!'
Favorite Actor: 'There are a few, but I have to say Jake Gyllenhaal, not because he's so easy on the eye, but he can really act.'
Favorite Actress: 'Again, there are a few.'
Hobbies: Gardening, cooking, traveling, fitness and sports
People Don't Know That I ...: 'am truly a very shy person.'
Dream Vacation Spot: 'Loved Australia, would like to go back.'
Sporting Spencer: Has also played tennis, been an aerobic instructor, snow skied and roller-bladed. 'Track & field was my big love in school and that was rekindled,' at the Sydney Games.