Wed 5 Nov 2014 In: New Zealand Daily News View at Wayback View at NDHA
Robbie Manson One of the country's most visible gay sports teams believes the news that one of New Zealand's Olympic rowers has come out as gay will make it easier for others to themselves come out. Rower Robbie Manson has spoken publicly for the first time about being gay, saying he hopes his story shows "not only that it's ok to be gay, but it's a good thing, and it won't change who you are or limit what you can achieve." Manson is a member of the New Zealand Elite rowing team and a former Under 23 World Champion in the Double Scull, a discipline he’s also won three World Cup Regattas in so far.Gavin Hyde of the Falcons gay rugby team says any sportsperson who feels comfortable enough to come out is taking a positive step for themselves and for other still-closeted athletes. "Robbie coming out helps promote more discussion within all sports codes and ultimately makes it easier for others," he says. Hyde believes Manson's coming out will help others beyond the sporting field too. "Every gay person has their own journey to make, and hopefully as society changes it will become an easier journey," he says.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Wednesday, 5th November 2014 - 1:06pm