The World Transplant Games celebrate the resilience, determination, and vitality of transplant recipients and living donors from across the globe. This year, a remarkable group of athletes from the Irish triathlon community will showcase the life-changing power of organ and stem cell donation in Dresden, Germany.
Here are some of their stories;
John’s triathlon journey began in 2007 with a charity event, and he has since competed in sprint and standard triathlons across the UK and Europe. In 2023, he became an altruistic living kidney donor, starting a chain of donations that helped three people. A proud member of Invictus Tri Squad, John will compete in Dresden in the triathlon’s donor category in its inaugural year, running alongside the other events and bringing his trademark determination and community spirit to the Games.
John shared his excitement for the games, saying, “I’m really looking forward to getting away and spending some time with the team; it’s a lovely bunch of people who really value life, health and fitness and don’t take that for granted.
“I’ve done most of the training now, so just really excited now to put it all together on race day and give it my best shot.”
A proud member of Carlow Triathlon Club via Tipperary, Bryan’s journey to the Games began when triathlon was first introduced to the event programme. With strong encouragement from family and teammates since his kidney transplant, he now races to show the world the transformative power of organ donation, representing both his sport and the gift of life he has received.
Bryan shared, “I got lots of encouragement from my family and friends, and also from the members in Carlow Triathlon club.
“I also want to get the message across that organ donation works, and it is truly the ultimate gift of life.”
A dedicated swimmer and member of Ards Swimming Club (Masters), Kathryn received a kidney transplant in June 2009 after four years on dialysis. Inspired by the 2011 British Games in Belfast, she began competing internationally, representing her club and country at 12 British Games, two European Games, and four previous World Games. Dresden marks her fifth World Games and her first competing for Northern Ireland. Though she has completed four sprint triathlons, swimming remains her first love.
Speaking on her goals for the Games, Kathyn shared, “my big hope and excitement is taking part in the mixed team relay.”
“The biggest thing is start small; a lot of people post-transplant aren’t sure what they can or can’t do. Start with something like a ParkRun or move on and do a duathlon – and gradually increase that training – there’s nothing to be frightened of.”
Since receiving a kidney transplant in 2006, Sheila has been a regular competitor at the World Transplant Games, beginning her journey in 2010. With experience in virtual triathlons and sprint triathlons, she continues to push her limits. A Triathlon Ireland member, Sheila brings a wealth of competitive spirit and years of dedication to this year’s Games.
Balancing work, family, and triathlon was tough for Kay, but she continued to race each year, peaking in 2010 with an age-group win at the European Championships in Athlone. Kay’s final event, the 2018 Whistler 70.3, reignited her love for the sport – until slowing parkrun times led to a diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia.
Following six months of treatment and a life-saving transplant from her brother, Kay found new motivation in the Transplant Games, joining to compete in the sprint triathlon.
Kay spoke on her motivations to stay active, reflecting, “Since then, I’ve been highly motivated to return to an active lifestyle. I started with walking, and gradually got back on the bike.”
Two years ago, Suzanne received a kidney from a donor. While the transplant didn’t go entirely as planned, Suzanne’s kidney functions at a fraction of its capacity, sport has become her way to fight through the difficult days. Her determination has carried her all the way to Dresden, where she will proudly take part in the relay event.
Looking ahead to race day, Suzanne shared, “I’ve been training really hard over the last 8 months; building up my strength and stamina on the track, in the pool, on the bike and the turbo. I’m hoping that it’s going to come together on the actual day.”
Following a kidney transplant from her brother Seamus in 2009 due to SLE, Sinead has competed in four previous World Transplant Games. For her, the event is about staying fit and reconnecting with the Irish team, sharing in the camaraderie and joy that the Games bring. Dresden marks her fifth appearance.
In 2014, Keith was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia. After successful chemotherapy, he returned to endurance sport, completing Ironman Lanzarote. When the cancer returned in 2017, Keith underwent intensive treatment and received a stem cell transplant in 2018. Despite setbacks, including Graft vs. Host Disease and a serious cycling accident earlier this year, Keith has rebuilt his strength and is ready to race in Dresden, proving that no obstacle is insurmountable.
Keith shared, “The best thing you can do if you want to get involved in a triathlon – get involved in your local club. There are lots of good people out there with lots of good experience in sport to help you on your journey.”
Orla has been competing at the World Transplant Games since 2011, primarily in track events, after receiving two kidney transplants. This year, she is also serving as Team Manager for Northern Ireland, leading both on and off the field. In Dresden, she will take on the swim leg of the all-female triathlon relay.
Every one of these athletes embodies the Games’ spirit – turning personal challenges into triumphs and using sport as a platform to advocate for organ and stem cell donation.
John Cunningham
Bryan Duignan
Sheila Gregan
Kay Hack
Sinead McGowan
Keith Murphy
Kathryn Glover – swim
Richie Shieran – bike
Seamus Coyle – run
Orla Smyth – swim
Suzanne McConnell – bike
Karen Leary – run
You can find out more about the World Transplant Games HERE.
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