Sheffield set to host 'biggest ever' British Transplant Games this week - everything you need to know
“The British Transplant Games celebrates much more than sporting achievement - they are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of organ donation and transplantation”
The Westfield Health British Transplant Games is returning to Sheffield for the what has been described as the “biggest ever held,” bringing incredible sporting achievements and an important message to the city.
More than 1,000 organ and stem cell transplant recipients will compete across 26 different sports in the city as the 48th annual game is set to take place between Thursday, August 6 and Sunday, August 9.
Organisers have said that this year’s event - which will be the fourth hosted in the city - will have the highest turnout of any event so far.
Lord Mayor Andrew Sangar said: “We are incredibly proud to host this inspiring event and to welcome all the athletes, donor families, living donors, supporters and volunteers from across the UK to our city.
“The British Transplant Games celebrates much more than sporting achievement - they are a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of organ donation and transplantation.
“Sheffield is a city that loves sport and understands the power it has to bring people together. From our world-class sporting facilities to our welcoming communities. We are delighted to provide the stage for these games and all the unforgettable moments they will create.
“I hope everyone visiting has the chance to enjoy everything Sheffield has to offer. From our vibrant city centre and cultural attractions to the beautiful greens spaces that make our city unique.”
The event will kick off with a parade through the city centre on Thursday, starting at Tudor Square at 6.30pm and heading through the Peace Gardens before arriving at Barker’s Pool for the opening ceremony in the City Hall.
Earlier that day teams will compete at archery, snooker and basketball, with more events for both adults and children running across the weekend.
A ten pin bowling competition will take place at Hollywood Bowl in Centertainment from 10am on Friday, with athletics and long jump trials taking place at the English Institute of Sport (EIS) later that same day.
Saturday morning will see badminton and swimming events at Ponds Forge, before a Donor Run through the city from 6.30pm.
Road closures throughout the centre are expected until 9pm to facilitate the public event.
Things will come to an end on Sunday with track and field races at EIS as well as tennis at Hallamshire Tennis and Squash Club, before an after party at Cambridge Street Collective in the evening.
“We thank all the many sponsors who over the years have enabled this event to become a reality and this year particularly mention Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Hospitals Charity, Westfield Health and KidneyCare UK for their generous support,” chairman of Transplant Active, Dr Paul Harden, added.
“The city council have also enabled the parade of athletes and the donor run to be visible, activating the heart of the city, which will help raise awareness of organ donation and transplantation.”
Dr Harden said that there are 2,860 registered participants this year, of which 1,145 are transplant athletes, describing the turnout as the “highest ever.”
Steve Purdham, chair of Sheffield British Transplant Games, added: “These are set to be the biggest British Transplant Games ever held - a remarkable testament to the strength of our transplantation community and to everyone who has worked so heard to make them possible.
“By showing how fully we can live after transplant, we inspire others and raise awareness that saves lives.”