Trail meets the Gay Outdoor Club.

Outdoor headlines

27 October 2010 17:04

It’s group walking, but not as you know it. The new trend sweeping the hills is specialist walking groups – and whatever your religion, race, sexuality or interests there’s bound to be one out there for you. Trail’s latest issue looks in more depth at this rising phenomenon, but to give you an insight into the philosophy behind the trend we talked to Brian Murphy of the Gay Outdoor Club (GOC)…

Could you explain the philosophy behind the GOC?
The GOC was formed from the activities of CHE in the 60’s, offering an alternative to the scene and a rebuff to the stereotype of the gay person. We enjoy, like others, the beauty and challenges offered by nature, from park walks to wild camping in the mountains.

What is it about being in an outdoor group in which the members are gay which appeals to your group?
GOC offers the chance to meet with like-minded people and to learn from them how to be competent and safe taking part in these activities. It also offers a safe environment to be at ease with each other and not to feel that embarrassing quietness in conversation when we have to explain that we are gay.

Why do you think specialist walking groups increasingly appeal to people nowadays?
It’s possibly this commonality of either interests or difficulty shared that is encouraging the increased formation of specialist groups with the opportunity to learn and support each other when sharing an enjoyable and healthy activity.

How can people get in touch with you?
We have a national regional network (www.goc.org.uk).  Each group organises its own calendar of events which include many other sporting activities besides walking.