Opening ceremonies will be held this coming weekend for the first World Outgames in Montreal.
Thousands of athletes will be arriving in Montreal over the next few days for the event for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender athletes.
"We're very excited because it's a real international event ... there are lots of volunteers and people who worked since years and years to organize those games," Louise Roy, the Outgames' CEO told CTV.
Close to 5,000 volunteers have registered.
"If I was a little younger I would be participating but I found another way to participate by being a volunteer," says Isabelle Ruiz."
Volunteer Marco Lopez told CTV he was "a little bit nervous but I'm excited as well...I think it's gonna be a very good experience."
The expected 12,000 to 13,000 participants is below the initial estimates of 16,000.
However, organizers are predicting the Games will be a big success.
"I think that we're the best prepared for an event like this that's ever been delivered for the gay and lesbian community," said Mark Tewksbury, the Outgames' co-president.
Athletes will compete in some 35 events, such as swimming, track and field and volleyball. Several cultural events are also planned.
The Games, which will run from July 26 to August 5, will take place on the heels of the Gay Games, which were held in Chicago from July 15-22.
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