Health and fitness industry networking event SIBEC UK 2016 gets underway at The Belfry in Birmingham this morning (25 May) with a keynote speech from Welsh rugby legend Gareth Thomas.

One of rugby union’s most prolific try-scorers, Thomas was Wales’ most-capped player when he made his 100th and last test match appearance in 2007.

As well as his achievements on the pitch, Thomas has won praise for his work supporting LGBT rights and acceptance. After coming out in 2009 as the UK’s first openly gay rugby player, Thomas has spoken about the stigma of homosexuality within the sports industry and expressed hope that other gay athletes will now find it easier to speak openly about their sexual orientation.

After the keynote from Thomas, the event will move on to a series of one-to-one meetings. More than 150 industry figures (55 buyers and 89 suppliers) will engage in a rigorous schedule of 20-minute meetings over a day and a half, in pursuit of new business connections and opportunities.

Speaking about this year’s event, event director David Zarb Jenkins said: “Our aim is always to provide delegates with a relaxed, professional environment where they can focus on building relationships and cementing partnerships.

“The Belfry provides the perfect backdrop to the event. Many delegates are choosing to also take part in the pre-event golf day and I am sure all attendees will be captivated by Gareth Thomas’ opening address.”

Health Club Management will be reporting live updates for the duration of the event. Head of news Jak Phillips will also be live-tweeting from the event, follow him on Twitter by clicking here.