AN international delegation is visiting the North-East to review preparations for the World Transplant Games which will be hosted in the region in 2019.
Representatives of the World Transplant Games Federation,
met with members of the Local Organising Committee for the World Transplant Games NewcastleGateshead 2019 and visited local venues, including Close House, which will play host to the golf in 2019.
The delegates included president Chris Thomas, of Australia, executive manager Kim Renyard, of South Africa and Colin White of Ireland.
The Games will be held from August 17 to 24 2019 at some of the top sports venues, including the Gateshead International Stadium, Sport Central at Northumbria University, St James’ Park and the Sunderland Aquatic Centre.
Mr Thomas said: “The aim of the World Transport Games is to raise awareness of the need for more donors globally, while encouraging transplant patients to regain fitness.
“The North-East is world renowned for expertise in transplantation and this was among the many reasons that the Federation decided NewcastleGateshead would be a fantastic location to host the World Transplant Games in 2019.
“Equally, thanks to Transplant Sport UK, the country has long been at the forefront of driving the profile and success of transplant sports globally.
“Hosting the World Transplant Games in 2019 is an ideal opportunity to showcase their expertise working with the local organising committee in NewcastleGateshead.
“It’s brilliant to hear how the preparations are coming along and see how our athletes will be welcomed in 2019.”
It was announced earlier this year that health and wellbeing specialist Westfield Health, had come onboard as one of the major sponsors of the Games.
Graham Wylie, chair of the Local Organising Committee chairman for the games said: “We are honoured to be able to welcome an inspiring celebration of human courage and physical fitness to the North-East.”
NewcastleGateshead was chosen as the World Transplant Games host venue in 2016, beating off stiff competition from Houston, Texas in America.
The summer instalment of the World Transplant Games takes place every two years and was last held in the UK 22 years ago with Manchester as host city. Its return is due in part to NewcastleGateshead’s successful delivery of the 2015 British Transplant Games, described by organisers “the best-ever”.
For more information on the World Transplant Games NewcastleGateshead 2019 visit http://worldtransplantgames.org/.
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