Huge medal haul for transplant team

AN air of celebration and pride swept through Dublin Airport’s arrivals hall when Transplant Team Ireland arrived home with 50 medals.

The brave athletes breezed through Terminal 2 adorned with their impressive haul from the seventh European Transplant & Dialysis Games in Zagreb, Croatia.

Members of the 26-strong team were greeted with a rapturous welcome by family, friends and supporters celebrating their achievement in winning 14 gold, 15 silver and 21 bronze medals.

This scoop placed Ireland in 3rd place on the medals table after France and Slovenia out of 28 participating countries.

Further cause for celebration was that newcomer to the team Alison Honner was announced

‘Best Female Athlete on Dialysis’ at the Games’ Gala Dinner closing ceremony.

One of the highlights of the homecoming for the team was to see transplant surgeon David Hickey in the welcoming party.

Team manager Colin White, from Balbriggan, said:

“We received a warm welcome in Croatia with temperatures regularly reaching over 40 degrees throughout the week.

“Notwithstanding, the Irish team kept its cool to pull off some great performances.

“The team was family to us all with great support at every venue.

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Mr White said the Games experience goes beyond simple sports competitions.

“The bond between competitors from all countries was palpable and the united desire to express appreciation to organ donors and their families was humbling,

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“Transplant and dialysis sports is growing consistently in Ireland and we look forward to many more people joining our team in time for the 2013 World Transplant Games in Durban, South Africa.

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Paul Prendergast, from Santry, a kidney transplant recipient, won three medals – silver in the Petanque event and silver and bronze in two swimming relay events.