Transplant games to be held in PE

THE 13th edition of the National Transplant Games will be held in Port Elizabeth in July.

The competition will run from July 12 to 15 and will see athletes who have received organ and bone marrow transplants compete in 13 different sports events.

The winners will represent South Africa at the World Transplant Games in Newcastle, England, next year.

The event aims to demonstrate the improved quality of life following transplants and through that promote awareness for organ donation and transplantation.

SA Transplant Sports Association (Satsi) chairman Stan Henkeman said the games had always been the highlight on the transplant calendar.

“It is the point in every transplant athlete’s year where they strive to be at their best, ensuring they gradually improve their own performances, while keeping one eye on their goals to qualify for England,” he said.

“Port Elizabeth has always had superb facilities and is one of the most beautiful cities to compete in. We’re sure this will help inspire our athletes to perform at their best.

“We welcome Nelson Mandela University and, in particular, the Faculty of Health Sciences, who are partnering with Satsa in organising an unforgettable event.”

The first day of competition is for all non-track and field events including cycling road race, golf, swimming, lawn bowls, petanque, squash, table tennis, badminton, tennis, ten pin bowling and darts.

One of the highlights of this day is a fun walk in which the public have been invited to participate.

On Saturday July 14, athletics events will take place at the Madibaz athletic track.