Wild Wild South 2024

From March 15 to 17, 2024, Stuttgart transformed into a vibrant hub for queer sports enthusiasts from all over the world. Organized by the queer sports club Abseitz e.V., "Wild Wild South" (WWS) took place for the 18th time and offered a weekend full of sporting challenges and social gatherings. Participants came from over 13 countries to compete in nine different sports and celebrate together. A total of almost 500 athletes participated.

 

The event kicked off on Friday, March 15, with accreditation at the Weißenburg LSBTIQA+ Centre. This did not only serve as a registration event, but also provided an opportunity for participants to get to know each other in a relaxed atmosphere and get ready for the upcoming athletic weekend.

 

Saturday, March 16, was all about sports. From the early morning hours until late into the evening, participants battled for victories, broke records, and made new friends at various sports venues throughout the city.

 

Badminton: Over 90 athletes competed on five levels (A, B+, B-, C+, C-). The Karls-Gymnasium sports hall was filled with the energy of the competitions, which showcased both exciting matches and sporting fairness.

 

Swimming: 366 swimmers completed an impressive total distance of over 368 kilometers at the Plieningen indoor swimming pool. The swimming tournament was a prime example of endurance and sporting ambition.

 

Shooting: At the Hirschlanden Schürzenverein's shooting range, 16 shooters demonstrated their air rifle and air pistol skills. Precision and concentration were the focus.

 

Football: Twelve teams competed for tournament victory in the South Sports Hall of the Schickhardt Gymnasium. The matches were characterized by team spirit and sporting passion.

 

Volleyball: With 18 teams, the volleyball tournament was one of the biggest events of the day. Teams competed at three different levels (A/B, C, D) in the Ostheim and Ost sports halls, playing exciting matches.

 

Fitness: 33 participants took advantage of the diverse Fitness class offerings at the Wirtschaftsgymnasium West, including Functional Training Power, aerobic workouts, and CardioMix. The classes offered a perfect combination of fun and exertion.

 

Feldenkrais: This workshop also took place at the Wirtschaftsgymnasium West and offered 14 participants a unique experience in body awareness. The day ended with a group Zumba class that brought all the athletes together once again.

 

Queer Tango: Nearly 40 dancers danced the night away in the Botnang Assembly Hall. The program included both beginner and advanced courses, as well as a Queer Tango Marathon.

 

City Tour: For those who needed a break from exercise or weren't keen on competitions, the city tour offered an interesting alternative. 18 people explored the city of Stuttgart and the current trend of "tiny houses," starting at Schlossplatz in the Stuttgart City centre.

 

The highlight of Saturday was the big party at Club Make in Fellbach. Nearly 250 participants celebrated exuberantly to the beats of DJANE Käry and DJ Andy RX. The LOVEPOP party series supported the event, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

 

Sunday, March 17, began with a relaxed brunch at the Schönbuch Brauhaus. Over 60 participants enjoyed the extensive breakfast buffet and reflected on the eventful weekend. The relaxed atmosphere provided a great opportunity to network and make plans for the coming year.

 

Wild Wild South 2024 was not only a success when it Comes to sports, but also a grand social event. It provided a platform for queer athletes from all over the world to network, exchange ideas, and celebrate together. Abseitz e.V. has once again proven how important and enriching such events are for the community. Everyone is already looking forward to the 19th Wild Wild South in March 2026.