LOS ANGELES, December 16, 2021 – The Sin City Classic Sports Festival Presented by Lexus, the largest annual LGBTQ+ sporting event in the world, today announced the creation of the Ken Scearce Leadership Award. The Sin City Classic organizers created the award to honor the memory and legacy of Ken Scearce, the Executive Director of the Festival who passed away suddenly on July 7, 2021. The inaugural Ken Scearce Leadership Award will be presented at the festival’s Opening Night party on Friday, January 14, 2022.
“Ken was dedicated to expanding the LGBTQ+ sports community. He worked tirelessly to grow the Sin City Classic and make sure all athletes were able to compete and have fun in a safe and welcoming environment,” said Sin City Classic co-Directors Larry Ruiz and Jason Peplinski. “The organizers of the festival created this award to honor a member of the LGBTQ+ sports community who shares Ken’s passion and exhibits all the traits that Ken embodied, including leadership, dedication, and community.”
The Ken Scearce Leadership Award will recognize athletes, leaders, coaches, referees and other volunteers who dedicate their time and skills to promoting the value and importance of LGBTQ+ sports. Their participation, both on and off the playing field, inspires others within their organization and builds community. Their hard work and selfless commitment directly and positively impacts the lives of others.
The organizing committee of the Sin City Classic will determine the winner of the Ken Scearce Leadership Award based on the following criteria:
You can submit your nomination for the Ken Scearce Leadership Award here or via email to dagerry@yahoo.com by completing this form.
During his tenure as the Executive Director of the Sin City Classic, Scearce grew participation in the festival, while also expanding the number of social events that took place throughout the course of the weekend. He encouraged participation at all levels – from experienced to those who were new to sports – while providing a safe environment for athletes and fans to compete and connect. He also moved the Closing Night Party to the Promenade’s Brooklyn Bowl, where performers have included Deborah Cox and Kristine W, among others.
The Greater Los Angeles Softball Association (GLASA) created the Sin City Classic in 2008 as an LGBTQ+ softball tournament meant to provide a safe and competitive atmosphere for LGBTQ+ athletes. Over the years the tournament has grown to include 24 sports and more than 8,000 athletes and fans. GLASA remains committed to creating the best experience possible for all the dedicated athletes who participate and the fans and allies to come to enjoy the festival.
The Sin City Classic is proudly hosted at The Flamingo Hotel and the LINQ Hotel. In addition to presenting sponsor Lexus, additional sponsors include Caesar’s Entertainment, Red Bull, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the Los Angeles Dodgers, Gay Games Hong Kong, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, GAYVN, Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority, Wesley Health Centers, and Piranha Nightclub.
For more information about the Sin City Classic or to register your team, please visit www.sincityclassic.org.
COVID-19 Statement:
The Sin City Classic is continuing to monitor the current situation with COVID-19 and will follow the state protocols and guidelines in accordance with the policies set forth by the state of Nevada, Clark County, and the city of Las Vegas, including wearing masks in all indoor spaces.
Each sport and/or event may have different health and safety requirements based on venue, but most sports require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. Currently, all athletes participating in the Sin City Classic should consult with their sport’s organizers and/or specific venues for additional safety information.
ABOUT GLASA
GLASA is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization that encourages and hosts the participation of LGBTQ individuals and their allies in organized sporting competitions.
About Lexus
Lexus’ passion for brave design, imaginative technology, and exhilarating performance enables the luxury lifestyle brand to create amazing experiences for its customers. Lexus began its journey in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since then, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of global luxury customers in more than 90 countries. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 243 dealers offering a full lineup of luxury vehicles. With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers eight F SPORT models, one F SPORT Performance model and one F model. Lexus is committed to being a visionary brand that anticipates the future for luxury customers.
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