Team talk boost

AHEAD of the World Transplant Games next month, 39 members of the Irish team gathered at the ALSAA Sports Complex for a motivational talk by international para athlete Mary Fitzgerald. 

Ranging in age from 16 to 81, Transplant Team Ireland comprises 29 men and 10 women, who have all undergone organ transplants.

The Irish team will be among 2,000 participants from over 60 countries taking part in the games in Newcastle in the UK from August 17-24.

The Irish Kidney Association is responsible for Ireland’s involvement in the games. 

National Projects Manager Colin White, from Balbriggan, is the team manager. 

“I am excited about the diverse nature of this year's squad who will represent Ireland at the World Transplant Games 2019,” said Mr White. 

“We cover a wide range of sports and have a variety of levels of experience too. Our five competitors over the age of 70 are a fantastic example to us all in that sport can, and should, be a life-long habit. 

“Each competitor is an ambassador in their own right and collectively the team sends out a wonderfully uplifting message about how life can be post-transplant.”

This year the team has gratefully received support from Swim Ireland, Athletics Ireland and Irish Squash. 

The ongoing coaching support from Swim Ireland has been particularly welcomed. Astellas Pharma Ltd. has again provided some sponsorship towards the costs of running the team.

For more information on the World Transplant Games and the Irish athletes visit the Irish team blog www.transplantteamireland.ie   

You can also visit  www.worldtransplantgames.org

For organ donor cards Freetext DONOR to 50050 or visit website www.ikw.ie/get-a-donor-card