Two Limerick men to represent the county at the World Transplant Games

TWO TRANSPLANT recipients from Limerick are set to represent Ireland at the World Transplant Games next month. The games take place in Perth, Australia from April 15 to April 21.

The legendary John 'The Bullet' Loftus and Michael Kiely are the two representatives from Limerick in the 14 strong team that travels down under for the games.

Loftus, who hails from Clarina, is a veteran of the games and is the oldest member of the travelling party. Kiely, from Ballylanders, is taking part in his second games and will compete in the following events: Golf Singles, Golf Team and Petanque Singles in the 50-59 category.

'The Bullet' is a veteran of the games and will be in the 70-79 category. His events are: Track 100m, Track 200m, Field – Ball throw, Petanque Singles and Darts Singles. 

Each of the athletes is funding their participation in the Games (games registration, flights, accommodation, and meals) through fundraising in the name of the Irish Kidney Association/Transplant Team Ireland and using their own funds.  

The team is proud to wear the team kit which, this year, has been sponsored by the Health Services Staffs Credit Union (HSSCU).

Its Chief Executive Sean Hosford, said, "HSSCU are very proud to be involved with the Transplant Team Ireland and provide support. It’s an organisation that is doing brilliant work.

"Supporting our members and the wider community is an integral part of how HSSCU operates. On a personal level and as a family that have benefited from organ donation, I'm very aware of the life changing benefits afforded transplant recipients by such a wonderful gesture.

"Everyone involved wishes each of the athletes competing the very best at the games. It’s an honour to be involved in a small way with an Irish team competing internationally. We look forward to following the team closely once the games get started."