The event, previously the Gay Games before a financial row led to a bitter split between the local organising committee and the Federation of Gay Games, has managed to retain much of its original commercial backers and still expects hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Said Louise Roy, CEO of the organisation responsible for MontrC)al's gay and lesbian games: "By becoming a sponsoring partner for three years, Labatt is making a significant gesture that goes beyond its financial contribution.
"Labatt Breweries is setting an example of courage and leadership, both commercially and socially, to all private enterprises in QuC)bec and Canada."
As a sponsoring partner, Labatt Breweries will be present and visible for the entire event as well as for related activities and communications programs for the next three years. Details of the agreement will be made public later this spring during a special event.
Labatt joins MontrC)al 2006's circle of supporting partners, including the governments of QuC)bec and Canada, the city of MontrC)al, Tourism MontrC)al, and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
Rendez-Vous MontrC)al 2006 will be held as planned from July 29 to August 5. More than 16,000 participants will compete in thirty-one sporting events.
Labatt Breweries has become latest sponsor of the Rendez-Vous Montreal 2006 Gay and Lesbian Games and Festival.
