World Transplant Games 2019 Souvenir Guide

SOUVENIR GUIDE

£301 EVENT GUIDE

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A WARM WELCOME

Welcome to North East England

A warm North East welcome from Graham Wylie, Chair of the Local Organising Committee for the World Transplant Games 2019.

A big welcome to everyone involved in the 2019 World Transplant Games here in NewcastleGateshead. It’s great to have you in the region supporting such an inspiring cause and raising the awareness and importance of organ donation across the world.

We’re welcoming participants, spectators and supporters from over 50 countries across the globe and we’re extremely proud of what this spectacular sporting event has achieved so far and will continue to bring to all of those involved.

Whether you’re a participant, a volunteer, sponsor or a visitor, we wouldn’t be here without your help and support - and for that, I’d like to thank you all.

It’s been a very exciting time for our region and we’ve loved

every minute of watching the plans come to fruition over the last two years.

We have a fantastic social, cultural and sporting programme lined up for participants and visitors to enjoy, incorporating some world-class venues across the region, including Gateshead International Stadium, Close House Golf Club, the Sunderland Aquatics Centre and the state-of-the-art Sport Central at Northumbria University.

Every donor deserves a medal and we’re looking forward to championing that throughout the World Transplant Games 2019.

We’re honoured to be given the chance to host such an inspiring celebration of human courage and physical fitness here in North East England.

Here’s to a week of sensational sporting achievements.

Well done to all involved!

Graham Wylie

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GAME ON

Contents 06 The Games overview All you need to know about The World Transplant Games

10 The Games in numbers Phenomenal facts and figures

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Participating countries Discover who’s participating in the Games

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Events schedule

Fundraising facts and figures

Where to go for all the sporting action

Find out just how much your support has meant

The Gift of Life A mother tells her son’s heartfelt story of organ donation

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28 Social and cultural programme Fun events in and around the region you won’t want to miss

32 The heart of fundraising Carole Stonehouse on the importance of fundraising

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36 Fundraising events From golf days to glitzy balls, the Games’ fundraising team has been busy

40 Meet Hero!

Say hello to the Games’ offical mascot

GAME ON

41 Educating local schools

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Top North East schools help raise awareness of organ donation

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The Chair of the Local Organising Committee for the Games on the importance of raising awareness

Alan Shearer on the Games

Diary dates

Newcastle’s footy legend reveals what the Games mean to him

What’s on in and around the region during the Games

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Places to eat during the Games

Mighty makeover

Further afield

Fuel up in some of the region’s best-loved restaurants

Team GB athletes and their friends enjoy a day of pampering

Time to explore more of the North East’s coast, countryside and cultural best bits

Graham Wylie on the Games

46 Published by Remember Media Ltd on behalf of World Transplant Games 2019 Publisher Chris March chris@remembermedia.co.uk remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2019 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved.

Photography credits: Phil Horan, World Transplant Games Federation, VisitEngland, North News, Rob Chambers, KG Photography While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited without written permission from the publisher. All information is correct at time of going to print August 2019.

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GAME ON

All you need to know about the World Transplant Games 2019 The World Transplant Games celebrate ‘the gift of life’. It’s a spectacular event that brings together over 2,500 sporting superstars and their supporters of all ages and abilities...

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GAME ON

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GAME ON

In its 22nd year, the Games continue to raise awareness about the importance of organ donation across the globe – uncovering some inspiring stories along the way. Every participant or volunteer, from the juniors to the team managers, all have a tale to tell, and it’s our job to spread the word.

This year, there’s no better place to celebrate such achievements – in a fantastic city with a track-record in delivering top-class sporting events.

Just this year, Newcastle has hosted the European Rugby finals at St. James’ Park, the HSBC UK National Circuit Series cycle race through the city centre, and now, the international athletes will come together once again to celebrate the sensational sporting abilities of recipients and donor families.

Athletes from 59 countries will be competing in events ranging from swimming and track and field, to archery, cycling, badminton, golf, volleyball and darts.

Whether it’s a thrilling race, a clash on the court or a nail-biting team sport, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

There’s lots of fun to be had in NewcastleGateshead during the World Transplant Games 2019 – whether that’s at one of the sporting events or at several pop-up events and exhibitions

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throughout the North East.

But we must remember why we’re here. Right now across the UK, there are over 6,000 people on the transplant waiting list including around 150 children and teenagers.

We need more people to support donation. It only takes a couple of minutes to register and we hope this thrilling sporting event and its inspiring athletes will help to encourage new organ donors across the globe.

From Spring 2020 the law around organ and tissue donation in England is changing. Unless you choose to opt out, or are in an excluded group, if you are 18 and above and live in England it will be considered that you agreed to be an organ donor when you die. Whatever your decision, make your choice clear to your family and closest friends to help ensure your choice is honoured.

NHS Blood and Transplant’s #PassItOn campaign encourages people to pass on their organs and save lives, make their decision and pass it on those closest to them, spread the word and help us pass on the campaign message to others.

Join the NHS Organ Donor Register now at: organdonation.nhs.uk

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THE GAMES IN NUMBERS

2,237 participants from 59 countries will compete in 15 sports across 13 venues

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new countries: Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mongolia, Nepal

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members of the Local Organising Committee

The most popular sports are track and field with 1,594 entries The Local Organising Committee of the NewcastleGateshead Games selected

archery and football from the optional sports. Football has strong foundations in the North East of England and archery is growing in popularity.

38 participants will compete in archery and 58 in football

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THE GAMES IN NUMBERS

86 living donor/

donor families Transplants: 722 kidney, 304 liver, 152 heart, 101 bone marrow, 67 double lung, 16 pancreas/kidney, 15 lung, 5 heart and lung, 4 pancreas, 2 intestine

800+

volunteers will be on hand to provide the famous warm Geordie welcome!

The biggest team is GB & Northern Ireland with a contingent of 510 followed by USA with 214

Oldest participant

Youngest participant

An 84-year-old man from France competing in the cycling 30k, road race, 50m breaststroke, 400m track and 1,500m track

A 6-year-old girl from Argentina competing in ball throw, long jump and 50m sprint

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ATHLETE PROFILE

Chef Oliver Hale

COUNTRY: USA AGE: 66 SPORT: Tennis, bowling, fencing

STORY

I am an award-winning healthy lifestyle chef and have had two kidney transplants in the last 30 years.

I have competed in six World Transplant Games in 1987, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1995 and 1997. I look forward to the next challenge in the UK.

The main reason for my involvement in the Games is to help promote the need for organ donation across the world.

I’m excited about visiting the North East this summer as I love to meet new people and enjoy a bit of sightseeing.

While I’m here in the UK, I plan to visit Liverpool to see some of The Beatles’ sites and get a Liverpool FC shirt for my grandson.

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We’re proud to support the World Transplant Games

Now, for tomorrow

WORLD TRANSPLANT GAMES 2019 NEWCASTLE GATESHEAD UK

www.taitwalker.co.uk

Proud to suPPort the World transPlant Games. #IntelligentIdeas

WORLD PLAYERS

Participating countries

Algeria

Andorra

Argentina

Australia

Austria

Azerbaijan

Belgium

Brazil

Canada

Chile

China

Colombia

Cyprus

Czech Republic

Denmark

Ecuador

Ethiopia

Finland

France

Germany

Great Britain & Northern Ireland

Greece

Hong Kong

Hungary

Iceland

India

Iran

Ireland

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WORLD PLAYERS

Israel

Italy

Japan

Kazakhstan

Kenya

Republic of Korea

Luxembourg

Malaysia

Mexico

Mongolia

Morocco

Nepal

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

Paraguay

Poland

Portugal

Russia

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

South Africa

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Thailand

Turkey

Uruguay

USA

Venezuela

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LASTING LEGACY

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LASTING LEGACY

The gift of life A letter from Tom’s mum, Lisa Wilson…

It was December 8th 2015. I was in the kitchen at home, 9 o’clock in the evening. My husband Graham was out, having just retired.

The phone rang - it was one of Tom’s friends.

“Lisa?” he said. “What’s up?” I said. “Tom’s had an accident.”

I thought, oh no, what’s he done this time? Broken his ankle?

Then, to my horror, I heard somebody say in the background, “Is he still breathing?”

I managed to get hold of my husband and we rushed down to the hockey pitch where Tom was unconscious on the pitch. He had been hit on the head with a hockey stick and immediately had a brain haemorrhage. We didn’t know that at the time.

He was taken very quickly to hospital for a brain scan, where they turned round at 11 o’clock at night and said: “I’m sorry to tell you, but there’s nothing we can do for your son.”

I know quite a lot about the brain because I’m a PE teacher, so I looked at these brain scans and I could just tell how damaged it was.

My husband and I just looked at each other in absolutely shock.

“What do you mean?”we said. Tom wasn’t even meant to be training that night as he was injured. He was persuaded to borrow some kit and during the session he was accidentally hit on the back of the head.

It was that night in hospital when my husband said, “Lisa, there’s nothing more we can do for Tom, but there is something he could do for others. Do you think we should consider organ donation?” My stomach had turned a thousand times over already that night - and it turned again - but I knew he was right.

So I asked if we could see a specialist organ donation nurse. Very early the next morning, I remember the SNOD (specialist nurses for organ donation) came in and said, “look, we need to share this with you, Tom is on the electronic register, he signed up at Nottingham Trent University.”

In the past, as a family we had spoken about organ donation over the dinner table. My husband always said, “if anything happens to me, give my body to medical science” and we would all laugh and say, “there’s nothing that could be used!”

But we just didn’t ever think it would happen to us. So when the SNOD said Tom was on the register, I just knew it was the right thing to do.

Obviously we said yes, they prepared Tom for organ donation.

We had spoken about it over the dinner table. My husband always said, “if anything happens to me, give my body to medical science”, and we would all laugh and say, “there’s nothing that could be used!

Then, on 9th December 2015, Tom was declared brain dead. On 10th December, they operated and said his organs were exemplary.

Tom was just 22. He was fit, he was healthy, he was handsome.

He was everything. They told us what they were able to do to help people in need and it just felt right.

The biggest shock came two months later, when Graham suddenly died. I lost both boys - half of my family. Pippa, my daughter, lost both her brother and her dad. It was absolutely devastating.

Graham was very into sport. He was a hockey correspondent, he was a sports sub-editor on the Daily Express, he wrote for England Hockey, he followed Olympics hockey and we all played hockey in the family.

We knew it was going to be difficult anyway, because Graham said, “how am I going to carry on writing my weekly hockey column when I’ve just lost my son through hockey?”

Within two months of Tom’s death, he was admitted to hospital and within four hours of being diagnosed with sepsis, he was gone.

It was - and still is - very tough, but because of Tom’s organ donation, we have found comfort in hearing about and meeting Tom’s recipients. This is how our involvement in the Games has evolved and we’re incredibly proud to be a part of it.

When it comes to organ donor families, you are given the option to contact recipients and their families. It’s a very controlled process. Some families don’t want to know, and some recipients find it very, very hard to get in contact with the family - some want to, some don’t want to.

First of all, you’re told if organs have been donated successfully.

Then you’re given the opportunity to write a letter to a recipient’s family. The letter says something along the lines of “we hope

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LASTING LEGACY

it’s been successful, if you want to write back, please do get in touch.”

And they might write back - sometimes they do, sometimes they don’t. We had Christmas cards from recipients and families just after we lost Tom. They were the most precious things ever. I’ve kept those, of course. “Thank you for my life”, were the words in the cards. They give me huge comfort still. It’s just incredible.

There’s a beautiful little girl called Rafa, who has part of Tom’s liver. Her mum immediately sent photographs of Rafa before and after she received Tom’s liver - and we’ve kept in touch since.

It was the same when we were introduced to Gordon, Tom’s heart recipient. When I saw pictures of Gordon with his children and his family - and the grandchildren - it was an overwhelming feeling of pride. I just knew I was going to like him. And then I found out he was a West Ham supporter, just like Tom. There were lots of little things that just told me I knew I was doing the right thing. I found out Gordon was in a rock band - and Tom would just love that.

I was very lucky. We actually met Gordon on Mother’s Day, which was very special. He messaged to say he was coming to see West Ham play for the first time. Pippa and I were at that game too, so we were sat there knowing that Tom’s heart was Meeting Gordon

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beating in the crowd.

Gordon visited us at home the following day, which just so happened to be Mother’s Day. Gordon walked in the house - it was surreal. It was like Tom had made his way back to us.

It’s really lovely because Rafa and Gordon have also been involved in the World Transplant Games. A silver relay baton was created in Tom’s memory. A week before the Games, Tom’s Baton set off from London, making its way up to Gordon in Newcastle.

In London, the baton’s journey began at Whitechapel Hospital, where Tom donated. Little Rafa was there to start the relay, before it made its way up the country, calling at different transplant hospitals along the way. Finally, a group of cyclists rode with the baton from the Angel of the North to Newcastle city centre, where Gordon received it - in the city where he had his heart operation.

It was really great to link the story from London to Newcastle, because although the event is being held up here this summer, people from all over the UK and beyond are here to take part. It’s a universal thing.

What is really lovely is that every year the baton will be passed on to the next host city. So, in the British Transplant Games, Pippa and I were asked to light the flame and then hand it over to Coventry.

Another baton has been commissioned called Tom’s Legacy - that’s for the World Transplant Games. And the same thing happens - it’s given to the next host country. Every two years that will be part of the ceremony. It’s a legacy forever. It’s absolutely wonderful.

Tom was always so sporty; he was a sports and hockey captain at school and he played everything really well. So, being part of the World Transplant Games is huge for us.

Our involvement in the Games and other fundraising events is ongoing. It’s important that we continue to raise awareness and help make a change, just like Tom did.

Because of Tom, up to 50 people’s lives have been saved or transformed through organ and tissue transplant and that makes me feel incredibly proud.

My daughter and I are overwhelmed with the support. Pippa and some of Tom’s friends set up ‘The Wilson 10’ - a group taking part in 10 races ranging from 5k and 10k runs, to Parkruns, half marathons and the Liverpool Marathon back in May. The aim was to raise £10,000 for Tom’s charity, the Tom Wilson Memorial Fund, but donations quickly went above and beyond the initial target.

Tom’s legacy is everlasting for so many reasons and I hope his story will help make a positive change. The gift that just keeps on giving… wonderful.org/charity/tomwilsonmemorialfund

TEAM MANAGER PROFILE

Gerardo Reyna Zuñiga

COUNTRY: Spain AGE: 38 SPORT: Spain Team Manager STORY I received my liver transplant back in March of 2012 due to autoimmune hepatitis. After a couple of years with bad health, February 2012 began as a nightmare, I suffered pneumonia.

In less than a month I had four episodes of coma. By the 22nd of March the doctors told my girlfriend that I had only 72 hours left to live, as my liver couldn’t handle all the medications.

By that same night, the marvellous Spanish ONT and all the amazing professionals that work there made it possible and by midnight I entered the operation room.

By 7am on 23rd March my life was saved and I had a new opportunity to fulfil a happy life. That night, a family living the most difficult moment in their lives, gave me the ultimate gift the gift of life - and for that I will be eternally grateful.

I participated at the 2017 WTG and obtained a bronze medal in tennis. Last November I was run over by a car, suffering a tibial plateau fracture, therefore I am not participating this year. After eight months of recovery and a new struggle, being with my teammates, helping them to the best of my capabilities is an extraordinary opportunity. As well as experiencing this amazing event with wonderful people from all over the world.

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GO-TO GAMES

Events schedule Eagles Community Arena HOSTING: Basketball WHEN: Wednesday 21st August, 10am-5pm NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Newcastle Castle, Great North Museum: Hancock This brand new, multi-purpose arena in the west of Newcastle city centre is home to the Newcastle Eagles, the most successful British basketball team of all-time, and the Eagles Community Foundation charitable trust. The three-court sports facility is state-of-the-art and transforms into a 2,800 seat venue for sport events, live entertainment and more.

Scotswood Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7AF

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GO-TO GAMES

Close House Golf Resort HOSTING: Golf WHEN: Monday 19th August, 9am-5pm (individual) Wednesday 21st August, 10am-6pm (team) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Hadrian’s Wall Home of the world’s only two Lee Westwood golf courses and the North East’s only PGA Golf Academy, Close House is a go-to destination for golfers. Set in the picturesque Tyne Valley, between the banks of the River Tyne and the ancient remains of Hadrian’s Wall, the 250-year old estate was the official venue of the 2017 British Masters on the European Tour and will be hosting the event once again in summer 2020. Facilities include two 18-hole golf courses, a 9-hole pitch and putt course and a clubhouse/restaurant.

Heddon-on-the-Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE15 0HT

Gateshead International Stadium HOSTING: Archery, volleyball, football, athletics WHEN: Sunday 18th August, 10am-5pm (individual archery) Sunday 18th August, 10am-5pm (volleyball) Monday 19th August, 10am-5pm (team archery) Monday 19th August, 10am-5pm (football) Thursday 22nd August, 10am-7pm (athletics) Friday 23rd August, 9am-6pm (athletics) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Shipley Art Gallery, Saltwell Park Gateshead International Stadium is the third largest sporting venue in Tyne and Wear, with a capacity of 11,800 people. The stadium is the North East’s only IAAF-standard athletics stadium, with five outdoor pitches and a multi-sports hall. It has been, and still is, host to many great national and international sporting events including athletics, rugby and football.

Neilson Road, Gateshead, NE10 0EF

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GO-TO GAMES

Hetton Lyons Country Park HOSTING: Cycling 30km WHEN: Tuesday 20th August, 10am-3pm NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Karting North East, Finchale Priory A former colliery site, this picturesque 55-hectare countryside park features several ponds and lakes. As part of the national cycling network, the park offers dedicated cycling tracks and trails throughout, as well as multiple picnic tables and benches.

It’s located on the Durham/Sunderland border, south of Newcastle and south west of Sunderland.

Downs Pit Lane, Hetton-Le-Hole, County Durham, DH5 9NL

NAMCO Funscape HOSTING: Ten pin bowling WHEN: Monday 19th August, 10am-6pm (individual) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Angel of the North, Gibside NAMCO Funscape is located inside intu Metrocentre. Found in Gateshead, to the south west of the city of Newcastle, it is the second largest shopping centre in the UK with over 300 shops and over 30 restaurants. NAMCO Funscape is home to 18 bowling lanes, alongside amusements, arcades and soft play.

Yellow Mall, 244 Metrocentre, Gateshead, NE11 9XY

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GO-TO GAMES

Hollywood Bowl Washington HOSTING: Ten pin bowling WHEN: Monday 19th August, 10am-6pm (individual) Tuesday 20th August, 10am-6pm (pairs) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Washington Wetlands Centre, Penshaw Monument, Herrington Country Park With 26 state-of-the-art lanes, a large amusements area, including Play for Prizes ticket machines, and fantastic food and drink options, Hollywood Bowl Washington is one of the North East’s best-loved bowling spots. Located in Galleries Washington Retail Park, to the west of Sunderland and to the south of Newcastle, it has a large on-site free parking area.

Galleries Retail Park, Washington, County Durham, NE38 7RZ

The Northumberland Club HOSTING: Squash, tennis WHEN: Monday 19th August, 08.30am-7pm (squash) Wednesday 21st August, 9am-7pm (tennis, singles) Thursday 22nd August, 9am-7pm (tennis, doubles) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Jesmond Dene, Paddy Freeman’s Park The Northumberland Club is the premier racket sports venue in the North East, with an on-site pavilion that houses an array of group fitness activities. Tennis facilities include a range of clay, artificial turf and indoor hard courts. The club also boasts five of the finest quality squash courts in the region and a multifunctional sports hall for badminton.

North Jesmond Avenue, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 3JU

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GO-TO GAMES

Sage Gateshead HOSTING: Pétanque WHEN: Sunday 18th August, 9am-9pm (singles) Monday 19th August, 9am-6.30pm (doubles) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, Gateshead Millennium Bridge The pétanque will take place on Performance Square and in the Mill Road Car Park, located just below Sage Gateshead.

Set on the banks of the Tyne, the world-renowned music venue welcomes more than two million visitors every year.

It’s considered a top North East landmark and offers more than 400 concerts and 10,000 music classes. It’s free to visit and offers stunning views of NewcastleGateshead Quayside and a great vantage point overlooking Gateshead Millennium Bridge.

Participants will register at Performance Square and be able to use the facilities at Sage Gateshead.

Gateshead Quays, Gateshead, NE8 2JR/NE8 5JB

Sport Central HOSTING: Badminton, table tennis WHEN: Tuesday 20th August, 10am-7.30pm (badminton, singles) Wednesday 21st August, 10am-7pm (badminton, doubles) Thursday 22nd August, 10am-5pm (table tennis, singles) Friday 23rd August, 10am-5pm (table tennis, doubles) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: The Biscuit Factory, Discovery Museum Sport Central is home to the hopes and aspirations of thousands of Northumbria University students, staff and members of the North East community. The stunning £30 million complex is situated in the heart of Newcastle city centre and is considered to be one of Tyneside’s most iconic sporting venues, offering a range of sporting facilities, including a highly-versatile arena.

Northumbria University, Northumberland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST

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GO-TO GAMES

Sunderland Aquatic Centre HOSTING: Swimming WHEN: Tuesday 20th August, 10am-5pm Wednesday 21st August, 10am-5pm NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Sunderland Empire Theatre, Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens, Seaburn and Roker beaches So much more than just a swimming pool, Sunderland Aquatic Centre offers a huge range of fitness options for those who love to stay active. Situated next to Sunderland’s much-loved football stadium - Stadium of Light - its main feature is its 50-metre swimming pool, which is the only one of its type in the North East.

Stadium Park, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR5 1SU

St. James’ Park HOSTING: Darts WHEN: Wednesday 21st August, 10.30am-6pm NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Stadium Tour at St. James’ Park, Leazes Park Since 1892, Newcastle United Football Club has brought a football-mad community together at their iconic home - St. James’ Park. The beating heart of Newcastle - often referred to as ‘the cathedral on the hill’ - hosts visitors, thousands upon thousands of football fans and NUFC supporters each year.

This year, it warmly welcomes World Transplant Games’ darts competitors, their families and supporters.

Strawberry Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 4ST

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GO-TO GAMES

Newcastle Town Moor/Exhibition Park HOSTING: 5k road race, Gift of Life 5k adult run, Gift of Life 3k children’s run WHEN: Sunday 18th August, 10.30-11.15 (5k Road Race) Sunday 18th August, 11am-12pm (Gift of Life Runs) NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Wylam Brewery, Victoria Tunnel Newcastle’s Town Moor is a large area of common land, covering around 400 hectares of open space and pastureland, making it a firm favourite for park runs. The neighbouring Exhibition Park offers a range of facilities for all the family. The Freemen of the city of Newcastle have happily given World Transplant Games special permission to use the Town Moor for both Gift of Life runs.

Claremont Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4PZ

NewcastleGateshead Quayside HOSTING: Cycling Time Trail WHEN: Monday 19th August, 9am-4pm NEARBY TOURIST ATTRACTIONS: Ouseburn Valley and Farm The Cycling Time Trial will take place along Newcastle and Gateshead Quaysides parallel to the River Tyne. The Quayside once played a central part of the city’s industrial heritage, serving as a commercial dockside, but after years of regeneration, it’s now a lively and most-loved spot, with bars, cafés, restaurants and vantage points on both sides of the river. Participants will register at Baltic Square then start and finish the race on the opposite side of the river in Newcastle.

Baltic Square, Gateshead, NE8 3BA

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TEAM MANAGER PROFILE

Alroy Dixon

COUNTRY: South Africa AGE: 33 SPORT: South Africa Team Manager STORY

I have a degree in Sports Management & Coaching and I am an IAAF Coach.

I have experience as Team Manager for various South African Sports Teams – Youth Olympics in Argentina 2018, Africa Youth Games in Algiers 2018, Commonwealth Youth Games, Bahamas 2017, Africa Youth Games in Angola 2016 and various others.

I am also an associate member of the South African Transplant Sports Association and I am very passionate about transplant sport.

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PLAY TIME

Social and cultural programme Games organisers have gone all out to ensure that it isn’t all sport and no play for the athletes and their supporters…

Opening Parade & Ceremony

Transplant Symposium

DATE: Saturday August 17th TIME: 3.30pm-10.00pm PLACE: Beginning at Old Eldon Square, Blackett Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7UG and ending at Sport Central, Northumbria University, Northumberland Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8ST To mark the official start of the Games, participating athletes will take over Newcastle city centre, parading through the streets with their country’s flags held high. Watch and cheer them on as they process from Old Eldon Square, accompanied by spectacular street theatre performers, before arriving at Sport Central at Northumbria University for their festival-style celebration, complete with street food and entertainment.

Free admission to parade Opening Ceremony tickets: £45 children, £65 adults Free admission for all accredited participants

DATE: Saturday 17th August TIME: 10am-4pm PLACE: Kings Hall, Armstrong Building, Newcastle University Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 8QB This insightful symposium will examine the contribution of Newcastle University and hospitals to the field of transplantation medicine and the use of exercise as part of a healthy lifestyle following organ transplantation. It will also provide an update on approaches to increase the availability of organs for transplantation. Enjoy presentations and workshops, led by clinicians, academics and World Transplant Games athletes.

Free admission, fully booked

Sports Science Event

Elmer’s Great North Parade Trail

DATE: Saturday 17th August TIME: 10am-4pm PLACE: Boiler House and union lawn, Newcastle University Campus, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 7RU Meet experts in sports and exercise science from Newcastle University at this fascinating workshop. Take part in activities to learn about how fitness is measured and optimised, celebrate the impact organ donation has on the life of transplant recipients and discover how exercise can assist recovery after surgery.

Free admission, no need to book

DATE: August 21st - November Tyne and Wear is proud to host Elmer’s Great North Parade from August until November. The spectacular art trail will feature over 50 individually-designed Elmer the Patchwork Elephant sculptures, including a very special World Transplant Games Elmer, named Raphael. You can follow the art trail during your visit either by foot or via the Metro. Be sure to take a few selfies with the WTG2019 Elmer at Newcastle Civic Centre, the location of the Games HQ. Free admission

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PLAY TIME

Tyne Takeover DATE: Tuesday 20th August TIME: 6.30pm-10.30pm PLACE: Life Science Centre, Times Square, Newcastle, NE1 4EP Head to one of Newcastle’s best-loved cultural venues, Life Science Centre, for a fun-packed evening of hands-on and interactive activities. Work with Northern Print to create your own WTG19 Postcards Home, create mini WTG-inspired animations, conduct science experiments, take snaps the WTG photo booth and take part in a mass gaming competition.

Don’t leave without adding your cultural contribution to the giant WTG19 wall of fame and treating yourselves to great food and drink.

Tickets £30 children, £38 adults Free admission for all accredited participants

Youth Programme DATE: Monday 19th August TIME: 2pm PLACE: Mr Mulligan’s Space Golf, 117 Newgate Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 5RZ All junior athletes and young supporters are invited to book up for an ‘out of this world’ afternoon of adventure golf, as World Transplant Games takes over Mr Mulligan’s Space Golf. Complete with pizza and soft drinks on completion of 18 holes, the event promises tons of food and healthy competition! Adults who wish to play can apply for a small charge.

Free admission for all accredited young people, but must be booked

Gala Celebration

Schools Exhibition

DATE: Friday 23rd August TIME: 6.30pm-midnight PLACE: Utilita Arena, Arena Way, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7NA Enjoy an uplifting celebration, which will see all participants come together for an evening of awards, presentations, dancing and live entertainment from special guests, Bootleg Beatles.

This feel-good event will mark the end of an incredible week of competitions, stories, memories and friendships, so don’t forget your dancing shoes - and tissues!

Tickets £65 children, £80 adults Free admission for all accredited participants

DATE: Saturday 17 August - Friday 23 August TIME: 9am-5pm PLACE: Gateshead International Stadium Earlier this summer, World Transplant Games teamed up with a number of local schools on a special World Transplant Games Art Programme, which saw children exploring issues relating to organ donation and transplantation through art and printmaking.

Come and see the final artworks and mascot designs from the winning schools.

Free admission

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ATHLETE PROFILE

Batbold.M

COUNTRY: Mongolia AGE: 60 SPORT: Bowling, table tennis STORY

I am executive director of The Mongolian Transplant Patient Association and would like to develop relationships with other similar associations across the globe. This is my first time pariticpating in the World Transplant Games and I am very excited for the challenges ahead. Â

I’m looking forward to making friends from all corners of the world and hope to get involved in organising future transplant games.

The main reason for my involvement is to develop an understanding among Mongolian citizens when it comes to organ transplant technology.

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Bidfood are proud and honoured to support and welcome the 2019 World Transplant Games to the North East www.bidfood.co.uk

DREAM Our expert Wealth Managers are here to help.

To find out more please call us on 0191 279 7300 brewin.co.uk/newcastle

Brewin Dolphin is proud to support the World Transplant Games 2019

PENSIONS | R E TIR EMENT | INHER ITA NCE | IN VESTMENTS

The value of investments can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

Brewin Dolphin Limited is a member of the London Stock Exchange, and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Financial Services Register reference number: 124444).

BDM2455 1907

FUNDRAISING

Fundraising with heart A key player in the World Transplant Games Organising Committee, Carole Stonehouse, tells us about the fundraising journey

How did you get the ball rolling with fundraising?

When we heard that we had been successful in our bid to host the World Transplant Games 2019, we immediately went into fundraising mode with a 24 month countdown.

NewcastleGateshead Initiative (NGI) took care of the worldwide marketing to participants via their country team managers and did a sterling job in terms of attracting over 2,500 athletes, supporters and donor families.

Whilst this was a huge project, we did have the enormous benefit of being able to market and profile a fabulous region with superb venues, awesome volunteers and the most spectacular places to visit including the coastline where we are holding the Donor Family Walk For Life.

The target for registrations, in-kind support and fundraising was around £2.5m and the clock was ticking! We created a fundraising committee, met on a regular basis and built a plan of action to ensure we met our targets.

We have to give huge thanks to Westfield Health, our major sponsor for their unwavering support of the British Transplant Games and the World Transplant Games.

A major fundraising campaign was launched at Close House, the venue for WTG golf. The campaign was aimed at encouraging business to get involved. Their help was vital in terms of cash support, in kind support and the all important CSR volunteering.

This event gave us plenty of altruistic businesses to talk to and we progressed from there.

To be able to reach out to lots of companies, we created a set of campaign assets with our creative agency SHA that provided details of how they could get involved, from sponsoring events to taking part in FUNdraising activities such as the Sage 6k Run and the Gift of Life Run. We were absolutely delighted with the reaction and rarely did we get a negative response. The warmth and generosity of the North East folk is fantastic.

There are too many businesses to mention individually, but they know who they are and without their support we would not be

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“Whilst this was a huge project, we did have the enormous benefit of being able to market and profile a fabulous region with superb venues, awesome volunteers and the most spectacular places to visit including the coastline where we are holding the Donor Family Walk For Life.” able to deliver one of the biggest events to come to this region we humbly thank you.

Any fundraising highlights?

Besides two golf days that raised £10,000, we held the Gift of Life Ball in January with over 300 guests at the Hilton Newcastle Gateshead. The glitzy event raised in excess of £70,000 - our most successful single activity to date.

We also held an Afternoon Tea with a Twist, where an Alice in Wonderland theme met with some very altruistic guests, raising over £22,000 in total. Who would’ve ever imagined that a trip down a rabbit hole would generate so much treasure over tea?

Inspiring stories along the way?

The first business to get involved was a small business employing 14 people called the Frontier Group. They managed to raise almost £20,000 through internal fundraising activities, a golf day and working with their suppliers to give discounted rates that they then donated to the Games. A massive amount for such a small company and a great benchmark to set for all the other businesses we presented to. This company are also providing 100+ mobile phones for the Games’ folk to stay connected.

Familiar fundraising faces?

We have to give huge thanks to Westfield Health, our major sponsor, and to HSBC and NHS Blood & Transplant, for their unwavering support. Thanks also to our ambassadors: Alan Shearer, Lee Westwood, Steve Cram, Andrew Cole, and Jonathan Edwards.

FUNDRAISING

Graham Wylie and Carole Stonehouse

Text WTG2019 to 70300 to donate £3

EVENT GUIDE 33

FUNDRAISING IN NUMBERS

£2.5 million expected to be raised by the Games To donate £3, text WTG2019 to 70300

4

fundraising committee members

9

events committee members

800+

volunteers

11

specially-branded World Transplant Games vehicles from motor retailer Lookers

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FUNDRAISING IN NUMBERS

2,500+

packed lunches for participants every day, courtesy of Bidfood

3,000+

refillable water bottles, provided by Northumbrian Water

900 lunch vouchers provided every day by Greggs over a seven-day period

50 tonnes of grit for the PĂŠtanque pitches

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FUN TIMES

World Transplant Games Fundraising Events The fundraising team have been busy in the run up to the Games. From golf days and fun runs, to glitzy dinners and afternoon teas, here’s what they’ve been up to…

WORLD TRANSPLANT GAMES FUNDRAISING GOLF DAY In October 2018, Close House Golf Resort hosted a special World Transplant Games Fundraising Golf Day. Guests were treated to a full day of sporting fun at The Lee Westwood Filly Course, kicking off with a hearty breakfast, followed by a 9am tee off, a spot of lunch and access to the driving range. Based on a Texas Scramble format, guests were able to take part in Longest Drive and Nearest Pin competitions.

GIFT OF LIFE BALL World Transplant Games 2019 kicked off its fundraising activities earlier this year with the Gift of Life Ball at Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead.

Taking place on January 19th, the event raised an incredible

“Over 300 guests enjoyed a spectacular evening, lead by renowned MC, Miss Rory, and complemented by North East singer, Lorraine Crosby, and her band, who provided entertainment and kept guests dancing until the early hours”

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£70,000 towards staging the Games.

Over 300 guests enjoyed a spectacular evening, lead by renowned MC, Miss Rory, and complemented by North East singer, Lorraine Crosby, and her band, who provided entertainment and kept guests dancing until the early hours.

Companies from across NewcastleGateshead and the North East, including Bidfood, Collingwood Insurance, Cellular Solutions, TSG, True Potential and Barclays, bought tables in support of the glitzy event and the impressive total raised was made possible thanks to the generosity of auction prize donors and those who donated throughout the evening to bag a prize.

The Gift of Life tree and raffle proved popular with guests, with one lucky lady taking home a beautiful diamond ring, valued at £4,000, provided by Donor Family Network.

Other highlights on the night included an exciting auction, with items such as villa holidays in St Lucia and Majorca and a Tuscany Vineyard experience going under the hammer.

Local artists, Steve and Chris Rocks, were in attendance to see their painting auctioned and renowned live painter, Ben Mosley, created a work of the iconic Tyne Bridge and Quayside.

SAGE 6K FUN RUN The region’s runners came together at North Park on 6th July 2019 to take part in a special Sage 6k Fun Run to help raise funds

FUN TIMES

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FUN TIMES

for Graham Wylie Foundation and awareness of the World Transplant Games 2019.

Open to all abilities and ages, from serious club runners to first-time novices, walkers and even furry four-legged friends, everyone came together to show their support.

Event hosts went to a great deal of effort to ensure that fun was woven into every activity on the day, from the children’s characters who encouraged little ones along the way, to a tempting artisan market, thrilling fairground rides and tasty food and drink concessions at the finish line.

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AFTERNOON TEA WITH A TWIST Supporters of World Transplant Games 2019 gathered together at Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead on July 19th for a special Alice in Wonderland-inspired Afternoon Tea event.

Guests were invited down the ‘rabbit hole’ for a day of tempting treats, feel-good fundraising and shopping. After picking up gifts from curious craft stalls and watching cookery demonstrations and a fabulous fashion show, guests enjoyed a selection of freshly-made delights, including scones, mini sandwiches and dainty desserts, topped off with plenty of fizz and gin.

FUN TIMES

From spring 2020

the law around organ donation in England is changing Unless you choose to opt out, you will be considered to have agreed to be an organ donor when you die.

Whatever you choose, let close family or friends know to help ensure your decision is honoured.

To find out more about your choices, including how to opt out: visit organdonation.nhs.uk or call 0300 303 2094

PASS IT ON EVENT GUIDE 39

MINI HEROES

Meet Hero!

Meet Hero - the official mascot for the World Transplant Games 2019...

With the aim of involving local schools in the Games and spreading the word about the importance of organ donation along the way, the WTG team challenged schools across Tyne and Wear and Northumberland to use their creativity and imagination to create a one-of-a-kind mascot for the event.

Mascots are a really fun way of engaging communities - and this summer Hero will play a visible role in ceremonies and events in the lead up to and during the Games.

There were over a hundred student entries and judges had the tough task of selecting a winner, eventually deciding to incorporate a number of elements proposed in the children’s designs to put forward to the mascot production company.

Look out for Hero and say ‘hello’ throughout the Games!

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MINI HEROES

Educating local schools In the run up to the event, the World Transplant Games team visited local schools to help raise awareness about the importance of organ donation. Here’s how they got involved…

In the run up to the NewcastleGateshead Games, four schools in the North East (Hilton Primary Academy, Prudhoe Community High School, Harlow Green Primary and Lambton Primary) took part in printmaking workshops with Northern Print.

The main aim of the workshops was to inspire and engage young people, while exploring school children’s responses to ideas about organ donation, transplantation and sport.

As part of the project, each school had a special session with GB Team Manager, Lynne Holt, who was joined by transplant athletes competing in the Games, to share their personal experiences of organ donation and transplantation and how they were given a second chance to live a healthy and active life.

Not only did the pupils explore themes of transplantation and

global sport, they also picked up new skills and printmaking experience. A selection of the final artworks from each school have been incorporated into advertising posters used to promote the Games.

Anna Wilkinson, Director at Northern Print said: “There seems to be a lovely connection between ‘transfer’ and ‘transplant’ and the idea that we are all unique but share a common template.

We hope that the prints and posters will stimulate conversations about this incredible act of human ingenuity and generosity.”

Laurie Stevens, Art Lead at Hilton Primary Academy, said: “The project provided amazing opportunities to gain first-hand experiences from artists, print-makers and athletes. This has really helped us to enrich elements of our STEAM curriculum.”

EVENT GUIDE 41

MAN IN CHARGE

Graham Wylie on

THE GAMES North East businessman and co-founder of Sage Group, Graham Wylie, is Chair of the World Transplant Games 2019. He tells us about his involvement in the Games and why it’s a cause close to his heart…

How did you get involved in the World Transplant Games?

I was at The Freeman Hospital a lot when my daughter was having her heart surgery and was asked to chair the British Transplant Games in 2015 when they were held in NewcastleGateshead. These games were so successful that I was asked to help with the bid for the World Transplant Games.

Why is it important for people to support and get involved in the World Transplant Games this year?

Three people die every day waiting for a transplant - and that’s just in the UK. Our organs are no use to us when we sadly pass away, but can be used to give up to nine people a second chance of life and these Games show that you can have a perfectly happy and healthy life even after a transplant. So, these Games demonstrate that you can be fit and healthy but also promote the fact that we should all sign up to the NHS organ donor register and help save lives. Also, we should give all the people coming to the region this August a true friendly Geordie welcome and show why we love living here.

It’s great to see the Games held in NewcastleGateshead this year. What does this mean for the city and the region as a whole?

It means a lot to the city and the region - we are going to welcome over 2,500 people from 59 countries into the region for a whole week. Many of them are coming before the Games start and staying after they finish - a good economic impact for the region but, hopefully, they will come back to visit as well.

Also, The Freeman Hospital is known as the ‘spiritual home of transplantation’ and there will be a symposium held during the Games with speakers from all over the world keeping us at the forefront of transplantation research.

What’s in the pipeline at the Graham Wylie Foundation?

We are fundraising every week and every penny goes to help, educate and inspire children in the North East. We have built a very successful music therapy centre in Jesmond and have refurbished part of the ground floor of St. Mary’s Cathedral as the “Mercy Hub” to help homeless teenagers get a better start in life.

We have supported many smaller children’s charities and receive requests on an almost daily basis for help fund various projects.

The trustees meet every six months to decide which projects we will support. grahamwyliefoundation.org.uk

The North East is becoming a bit of a hotspot when it comes to major sporting events. Why do you think the region has been in the sporting limelight so much recently?

We love our sport here and we have some great venues. The local councils are keen to bring more and more events to the region and are very proactive and extremely helpful to make sure we pitch with confidence and their support ensures we win any bids we make.

“Three people die every day waiting for a transplant - and that’s just in the UK. Our organs are no use to us when we sadly pass away, but can be used to give up to nine people a second chance of life and these Games show that you can have a perfectly happy and healthy life even after a transplant”

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MAN IN CHARGE

EVENT GUIDE 43

MAN IN CHARGE

“We are going to welcome over 2,500 people from 59 countries into the region for a whole week” Graham Wylie

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ATHLETE PROFILE

Phoebe Pace

COUNTRY: Great Britain AGE: 9 SPORT: Swimming STORY

I am 9-years-old and 7 years post liver transplant.

Two weeks before my second birthday I suffered acute liver failure. My health deteriorated very quickly and I was listed on the Super Urgent Transplant List. Just 13 days after an emergency GP appointment, I received my liver transplant.

I am a proud member of Leeds Children’s Transplant Team and compete at the British Transplant Games every summer - an amazing opportunity to celebrate my gift.

I’m a keen swimmer and thanks to my donor, I can live an active life. I have taken part in ski camp in Switzerland for transplanted children and attended youth camp for transplanted children in Finland. I enjoy any opportunity to highlight the importance of organ donation and transplant and have appeared in an appeals film for BBC Children in Need and as an Ouch Patient in the new series of CBBC’s Operation Ouch.

EVENT GUIDE 45

DINE OUT

Eating out during the Games North East foodie hotspots to fuel up at during the World Transplant Games 2019…

NEWCASTLE THE MUDDLER, NEWCASTLE The Muddler is a fabulous all-rounder, ticking boxes across the board for mouthwatering cuisine, show-stopping cocktails and dazzling decor. It serves up vibrant and authentic PanAsian flavours.

MENU MUST-HAVES: Make room for the mixed platter bringing beautiful bundles of sushi and dim sum to the table.

Great for sharing with a big group!

69 Grey Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 6EF, themuddlernewcastle.co.uk

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AVEIKA, NEWCASTLE For dinner and drinks with a VIP twist, then consider Aveika – an award-winning restaurant and late bar, perfectly positioned in the heart of Newcastle’s buzzy Quayside. While the restaurant serves up contemporary Japanese cuisine, the high-class bar transforms into an exciting after-dark destination for drinking and dancing.

Big groups are more than welcome; nab yourself a large table at the back of the restaurant, or head upstairs to the VIP mezzanine level for private dining.

MENU MUST-HAVES: Giant prawns or spicy tuna tacos.

Sandhill, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 3AF, aveika.co.uk

DINE OUT

SCREAM FOR PIZZA, SANDYFORD Scream for Pizza is one of the North East’s most popular street food names, famed for its wood-fired pizzas. The brains behind the restaurant trained as pizza chefs in Naples and have brought some of the best Italian recipes home with them.

Eat in or take away!

MENU MUST-HAVES: The Brooklyn Bee pizza is sure to have you smiling from ear to ear. San Marzano tomato sauce, fior di latte, pecorino, spianta salami, pepperoni, basil and chilli honey drizzle. Delicious.

21-25 Starbeck Avenue, Sandyford, NE2 1RJ, screamforpizza.com

SUNDERLAND THE GOOD APPLE CAFE, SUNDERLAND For meat and dairy-free fry-ups, then look no further than The Good Apple Cafe – Sunderland’s celebrated vegan hang-out. Big brekkies include avocado on toast, homemade veggie sausages, grilled mushrooms, hash browns and baked beans. Plates so good, you’d never think they were vegan. There’s also scrambled tofu on toast, vegan wraps, toasties and bagels if you’re in the mood for brunch, as well as daily specials like vegan quiche, falafel and salad and homemade soup.

MENU MUST-HAVES: The big veggie breakfast will fill you up ready for an action-packed day of sport in the North East.

18 Derwent Street, Sunderland, SR1 3NU, goodapplecafe.co.uk THE COAST RILEY’S FISH SHACK, TYNEMOUTH Heading to the coast? Make sure you visit the famous Riley’s Fish Shack on King Edward’s Bay, where you can dig in to some delicious locally-caught fish while you watch the world go by and look out to sea. Riley’s catch-and-serve concept means foodies can enjoy the freshest of seafood - everything from surf and turf, to lobster, chargrilled squid and pan fried hake.

MENU MUST-HAVES: The chargrilled fish wrap is an absolute must-try. Served on a wood-fired flatbread with the shack’s signature salad, chipotle chilli relish and garlic potatoes.

King Edward’s Bay, Tynemouth, NE30 4BY, rileysfishshack.com

THE FRENCH QUARTER, NEWCASTLE Go to this laid-back neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar, nestled in Newcastle’s railway arches, for a tasty tapas-style menu, packed with made-for-sharing plates across charcuterie and cheese, meat, fish and seafood. A place to mix ’n’ match and discover new flavour combos alongside great wine.

MENU MUST-HAVES: Wash down the delicious garlic king prawns with a crisp glass of sauvignon blanc.

Arch 6, Westgate Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1SA, frenchquarternewcastle.co.uk

DURHAM FLAT WHITE KITCHEN, DURHAM Flat White Kitchen is an uber-stylish hang-out, just a stone’s throw away from Durham’s iconic Cathedral and Castle. It’s an idyllic pit-stop for city visitors - serving all kinds of eggs and pancakes, as well as plenty of sweet treats and healthy dishes.

MENU MUST-HAVES: A cup of Ouseburn Coffee Co. is a must to kick things off - followed by a sweet stack of pancakes. Think fresh fruit, maple syrup and cinder toffee butter.

40 Saddler Street, Durham, DH1 3NU, flatwhitekitchen.com

GATESHEAD GRUMPY PANDA, GATESHEAD Grumpy Panda is the North East’s only vegan American-style diner, known and loved for its lip-smackingly-good dishes, inspired by those found in USA’s deep south, border and beyond.

Everything from towering “cheezburgers” and Philly “cheezstake” sandwiches, to tofu and jackfruit burritos and tacos, deep-fried cauliflower wings with dairy-free buffalo sauce and ranch dip for dunking and mean meat-free hot “dawgs”.

MENU MUST-HAVES: For something sweet, try the fluffy Biscoff pancakes, drizzled in vegan chocolate sauce.

14 Regent Terrace, Gateshead, NE8 1LU, grumpypandafood.com

EVENT GUIDE 47

TEAM MANAGER PROFILE

Reena Raju

COUNTRY: India AGE: 38 SPORT: India Team Manager

STORY A former hockey player and track and field athlete and a strong proponent for the cause of organ donation and transplantation in India, I leverage all of my talent and energy to highlight the cause because it needs much attention and action.

Six months after my first heart transplant, I took part in a 5km run, did a 15ft underwater sea walk and a 13,000ft tandem skydive, all with my precious donor heart beating in me.

I did this, not only because I love sports and adventure, but also because I’ve been trying to inspire many recipients, telling them that, we too, can lead a healthy and fit life.

My first World Transplant Games experience was in Malaga 2017, where I became the first female transplant athlete of India. Soon after the 2017 World Transplant Games,

48 EVENT GUIDE

I had multiple cardiac arrests due to CAV, which meant a second heart transplant.

I was appointed Team Manager for India in November 2018, just before the registrations opened for the 2019 Games. I have encouraged 14 athletes (11 recipients, three living donors) to register and have helped four athletes get sponsorship who would’ve otherwise dropped out due to a lack of funds. Apart from three athletes who have already experienced the World Transplant Games, the remaining 11 athletes and six supporters are very excited to witness and participate in the 2019 Games for the first time.

My mantra in life: “Those who fear death can never live.

Choose to live. Choose to give.” I wrote this quote immediately after my first heart transplant in 2009.

XXXXXXXX

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ACTION MAN

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ACTION MAN

Alan Shearer on

THE GAMES As an ambassador for this year’s World Transplant Games in NewcastleGateshead, Alan Shearer swaps studio days for city sporting action this summer...

The Geordie sports star hasn’t completely switched off during the football break this summer, shifting his thoughts to the World Transplant Games 2019.

The sporting world is as much about community and opportunity as it is about skill and success. His Newcastle roots have remained paramount throughout his career, and he has his local community to thank for such opportunities.

So, when the opportunity to get involved in the World Transplant Games 2019 came about, he was the perfect fit for chair and longterm friend, Graham Wylie.

“I was an ambassador for the British Transplant Games in 2015 when they came to NewcastleGateshead,” says Alan.

“So when Graham asked me if I’d do the same for the World Transplant Games this year, it was an easy decision to say yes.”

It’s a cause close to his heart and something many of us will experience in some way throughout our lifetime. And, of course, it’s a spectacular sporting event held here in the North East - why wouldn’t he be the face of it?

“I’m privileged to be an ambassador for the World Transplant Games 2019. Sport should be for everyone.

“For me, it’s about lending support to an inspiring campaign that encourages a healthier lifestyle for transplant recipients and spreading the word about the importance of signing up to the organ donor register.

“I’ve been involved in the fundraising golf days in the run up to the event, plus a promotional video aimed at encouraging businesses and individuals to get involved in any way they can.

“For me, hosting up here in the North East is another example of how fantastic we are in this region at securing and hosting major sporting events,” he says.

“The Games will bring over 2,500 participants from 59 countries and I know we’ll give them a really warm, North East welcome.

“Visitors will also be contributing to the regional economy in terms of accommodation, restaurants and attractions.

Sunderland gets in on the action too with cycling held at Hetton Lyons Country Park and the swimming at the Aquatic Centre.

“The media attention is also great for the region and given we have participants from around the UK and the world, it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the very best the region has to offer.”

“I was an ambassador for the British Transplant Games in 2015 when they came to NewcastleGateshead. So when Graham asked me if I’d do the same for the World Transplant Games this year, it was an easy decision to say yes” Newcastle is very much flying the flag when it comes to the North East’s major sporting events; from the European Rugby Finals held at St. James’ Park back in May, to the World Transplant Games this summer and the British Masters coming to Close House in 2020.

“We love our sport here and this passion is easily transferred when it comes to delivering great events.

“From the stewards and volunteers, to the superb venues that we are fortunate to have in the region. And not to forget the people

EVENT GUIDE 51

ACTION MAN

who work tirelessly to get these events here. Graham Wylie and his BID team got down to the last two and then beat off the USA. “And then, if that’s not enough, Graham announces that he’s also been successful in securing the British Masters in 2020, so we’ll have a great year at Close House next year too!

“It’s a very exciting time when it comes to sport in the North East.”

All major sporting events add to the economy and our cultural diaries, but the World Transplant Games especially, is a great opportunity to raise awareness, spread the word and get people involved in organ donation.

“The World Transplant Games is about a group of people who’ve

52 EVENT GUIDE

been given a second chance,” says Alan.

“An incredibly altruistic gift made possible by donor families. In 2015 it was fantastic to see all ages and abilities enjoying every single second – and this year will be no different.

“With only around 35% of the UK population on the organ donor register, it means that there are more than 6,500 people who need a transplant to live and three people die every day waiting for the call.

“When you look at the facts, it’s a decision about what you would want for yourself and your loved ones and if you’re prepared to receive, then you should seriously consider giving.

It takes five minutes to sign up and makes a massive difference to those woeful numbers.”

ACTION MAN

“The World Transplant Games is about a group of people who’ve been given a second chance” Alan Shearer

EVENT GUIDE 53

TEAM TREATS

Mighty makeovers Team GB transplant athletes and their special guests are treated to luxurious makeovers ahead of World Transplant Games…

On a bright and sunny July morning, six inspiring women headed to Fenwick Newcastle for some well-deserved pampering. Each of them have been affected by organ donation; some have received heart transplants, some have been gifted new kidneys and livers, while others have cared for and supported those going through life-saving surgeries. All of them have a story to tell and know all too well how important transplantation is.

Three of the women, Vicky Horan, Kaylee Davidson-Olley and Louise Mclellan, will be volunteering and competing in the Games as part of Team GB, but were delighted to take a muchneeded break during the run-up. And what better way to relax than with a makeover with friends?

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The women’s transformations began at Charlotte Tilbury, inside Fenwick’s Beauty Hall. There, expert makeup artists treated them to marvellous makeovers, using Charlotte Tilbury’s awardwinning products to enhance their natural features and bring out their own individual beauty.

After, they made their way to Aveda Blow Dry Bar, where skilled stylists gave their hair plenty of TLC, treating them to everything from beachy waves and silky curls, to sleek and polished ‘dos.

Sporting freshly-styled locks and glowing skin, the women then sat down to complimentary Afternoon Tea at Mason + Rye, in the comfort of Fenwick’s renowned Food Hall.

After swapping stories over scones and relaxing over cups of tea, each of them were presented with bright and beautiful bouquets from Diana Kaye florists, along with goodie bags filled with top products from Charlotte Tilbury and Aveda. The perfect way to mark the end of a fantastic day.

TEAM TREATS

VICKY HORAN, TEAM GB ATHLETE Vicky has received three kidney transplants throughout her life and is a cancer survivor. She lives in Bishop Auckland and will compete in volleyball and basketball for Team GB in the Games.

“Having a makeover was an absolute treat. Between work, training and playing volleyball for my local club, I don’t have a lot of time to treat myself. Being a part of Team GB for the Games is such an honour and I’d like say a massive thank you to the Charlotte Tilbury team for making me feel so special.”

LYNN HUNSLEY Lynn’s son, Joseph, received a liver transplant as a baby, followed by a liver and kidney transplant in 2018. He began his tennis training while in a wheelchair, but after having pins in his legs in 2018, he is now able to walk and play unaided.

Lynn has supported and cared for Joseph throughout his surgeries, travelling with him to hospitals in Birmingham, Leeds and Newcastle.

“Often, as a parent of a poorly child, you take a back seat. During my visit to Charlotte Tilbury I felt totally pampered. Everyone took such good care of me and made me feel special. For a short time, I was whisked away from my normal day-to-day worries.”

KAYLEE DAVIDSON-OLLEY, TEAM 19 VOLUNTEER Kaylee is Britain’s longest surviving heart transplant patient, having received a new heart at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital at just five months old. She is now a transplant ambassador and one of more than 800 volunteers supporting the Games.

“I’d like to thank the Charlotte Tilbury team for treating us like royalty and also the Aveda team for a beautiful day. I felt empowered and ready to go. I loved every minute.”

LUCY CURRY Lucy has known Kaylee since childhood and has witnessed just how vital organ donation has been to her friend’s life. She is passionate about spreading the word about transplantation.

“My makeover at Charlotte Tilbury was amazing. It was a pleasure to meet other inspirational transplant athletes and share the experience with them. They absolutely deserved a day of pampering and I loved it too. A huge thanks to everyone involved.”

LOUISE MCLELLAN, TEAM GB ATHLETE Louise was born with congenital heart disease, stopping her from taking part in sport or exercise. However, after receiving a heart transplant at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, she has since taken

EVENT GUIDE 55

TEAM TREATS

Vicky Horan TEAM GB ATHLETE

Lynn Hunsley

Kaylee Davidson-Olley TEAM 19 VOLUNTEER

Lucy Curry

Louise McLellan TEAM GB ATHLETE

Lynne Holt TEAM GB&NI MANAGER

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TEAM TREATS

up running and has competed in several half marathons.

She will be competing in swimming for Team GB in the Games.

“I can’t thank the Charlotte Tilbury team enough for their welcome and support of the Games. I’ve been training hard the past few months and have been in the pool five times a week, so to be pampered felt wonderful!”

LYNNE HOLT, TEAM GB&NI MANAGER Before retiring in 2015, Lynne Holt was at the centre of UK transplantation for 30 years. Former transplant coordinator at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital, she oversaw both Louise and Kaylee’s successful transplants and has remained close friends with both women ever since. She is now Team GB manager for the Games.

“I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the Charlotte Tilbury team and I admire their work on empowering women. Being so involved with World Transplant Games, managing Team GB and liaising with the Team Managers from around the world, I really needed

a few hours of pampering - and sister power! I loved seeing how my athletes and volunteers were loving the experience, too. An enormous thank you to everyone involved.”

A WORD FROM TEAM TILBURY… “We were delighted to host the ladies for a fantastic day of treats on behalf of Charlotte Tilbury and Fenwick Newcastle. When we first heard about World Transplant Games’ incredible work, we knew immediately that we wanted to help raise awareness.

We are doing this the only way we know how; by empowering the women whose lives have been directly affected through transplant donation and sharing Charlotte’s makeup magic.

Charlotte believes if you give a woman the right makeup she can conquer the world. She believes that every woman wants to feel beautiful, powerful and sexy and that makeup is a great way to achieve this.”

Victoria Anderson, Charlotte Tilbury

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MIGHTY MOTORS

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MIGHTY MOTORS

Driving support Motor retailer Lookers is proud to be the official vehicle sponsor of World Transplant Games 2019...

Eager to show its support to everyone taking part in World Transplant Games 2019, Lookers has provided a fleet of speciallybranded vehicles to help assist those involved.

The motor retailer has released 11 vehicles from its Volkswagen van centre in Newcastle, which will be used by World Transplant Games Federation members as well as local organisers who will be travelling between venues and transporting equipment in the run up and during the events.

Several of Lookers’ North East franchises are working together to support the Games, acting as a dedicated point of contact and service assistance at each of the retailer’s dealerships in Newcastle and Gateshead.

Andrew Davison, head of business at Lookers Volkswagen Van Centre, Newcastle, said: “We are extremely proud to be supporting World Transplant Games 2019, which promises to be the event of the summer here in the North East. Those taking part should be very proud of themselves and we wish them the best of luck. Transport to and from the many planned events and competitions is something we were very keen to provide and we hope that the public also lend their support to these inspiring competitors.”

Graham Wylie, chair of World Transplant Games 2019, said: “We are delighted that Lookers has come onboard as official vehicle sponsor. The Games is an inspiring event that celebrates a second chance to live life to the full and raises public awareness of organ and tissue donation.”

World Transplant Games 2019 is supported by a number of businesses, both in the North East and other regions within the UK. These supporters include Games Sponsors Westfield Health and HSBC, as well as Collingwood Insurance who are providing the insurance for the official vehicles.

“We are delighted that Lookers has come onboard as official vehicle sponsors.

The Games is an inspiring event that celebrates a second chance to live life to the full and raises public awareness of organ and tissue donation” EVENT GUIDE 59

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Lynne Holt

COUNTRY: Great Britain AGE: 63 SPORT: GB&NI Team Manager STORY I first became involved in transplantation 40 years ago as sister-in-charge of the Intensive Care Unit at Papworth Hospital, Cambridge. The first UK heart transplant programme had started at the hospital only months before my arrival and I was responsible for caring for the newly-transplanted patients, developing protocols and training all staff.

They were exciting and challenging times in those early days of heart transplantation. I became very involved and soon realised I wanted to specialise in this field. I count myself very lucky to have started working in the NHS in the mid 70s.

It is so worthwhile to be part of the team which facilitates major life and death decisions and being closely involved with patients and their families.

I was the first Clinical Transplant Coordinator appointment in the UK, when I moved to the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle 33 years ago. There, I co-ordinated the new transplant programme for heart and lung transplantation in both children and adults.

My role involved coordinating the whole transplant process, from when the patient is referred for assessment and joins the waiting list, to receiving offers of organs, organising the theatre

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teams, retrievals and supporting the patients and their families throughout the whole transplant journey.

I have been involved as a volunteer for the charity Transplant Sport since 1982. The charity aims to demonstrate the benefits of transplantation, encourage exercise and sport, promotes the need for organ donation, celebrates life and gives thanks to the donor families.

I am committed to making a difference in promoting awareness of organ donation. I have been involved in organising the British Transplant Games, fundraising and PR events, numerous satellite sport events in the UK and abroad, including children’s ski camps, the European Transplant and Dialysis Games, the World Winter and Summer Transplant Games, which really demonstrate the benefits of organ donation. I have been involved with the World Transplant Games and the GB Team since 1984, as a volunteer, councillor, assistant TM and as Team Manager since 2007. My whole life I have been part of a team, be it at work, managing Team GB, family with husband and 4 children, and know that none of my successes are due to me alone.

Sintons - World Transplant Games Advert 175x134 - 23043 - ARTWORK with crops and bleed.pdf

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Diary dates What’s on in and around the region during the World Transplant Games 2019…

SCREEN ON THE GREEN UNTIL 1 SEPTEMBER 2019 Don’t forget to catch Newcastle’s free outdoor film screenings over at Old Eldon Square this summer. From straight-fromthe-big-screen blockbusters and classics, to movies for little ones and not-so-little-ones, there’s something for everyone at the city’s pop-up cinema. Throughout the World Transplant Games, film-buffs can look forward to screenings of SpiderMan: Into the Spider-Verse, Jurassic World, E.T and The Devil Wears Prada to name but a few. Pull up a deckchair, pop open the popcorn and enjoy a whole host of free film screenings in Newcastle this summer.

Old Eldon Square, NE1 7UG, getintonewcastle.co.uk

Michael Baister

TYNE BRIDGES TOUR UNTIL 1 SEPTEMBER 2019 Thrill-seekers looking for a bit of city centre adventure shouldn’t miss out on the chance to kayak on the Tyne from NE1’s Newcastle City Marina this summer. Brought to you by Cullercoats Bike and Kayak, the activity is available for the public to enjoy throughout the season, until Sunday 1st September 2019.

Newcastle City Marina, Quayside, NE1 1LF, cullercoatsbikekayak.co.uk

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DO THIS

NORTHUMBRIAN WATER QUAYSIDE SEASIDE

Matthew Murphy

UNTIL OCTOBER 2019 Get your beach fix right here in the city at NE1’s Quayside Seaside, in-situ on the Costa del Tyne. This tropical paradise, complete with golden sand, deckchairs and swaying palm trees, is a great place to sink your toes, rest your legs and soak up the summer vibe on the Quayside.

Quayside, NE1 3DH, getintonewcastle.co.uk

LES MISÉRABLES 15 AUGUST - 5 OCTOBER 2019 Cameron Mackintosh’s Broadway musical phenomenon arrives in Newcastle this summer. After nearly a decade since the last sell-out UK tour, this spellbinding production of Boublil and Schönberg’s musical, Les Misérables, arrives at the Theatre Royal.

With scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo, and a magnificent score including iconic songs I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own and Bring Him Home, you won’t want to miss this musical spectacular.

100 Grey Street, NE1 6BR, theatreroyal.co.uk

DIPPY ON TOUR: A NATURAL HISTORY ADVENTURE UNTIL 6 OCTOBER 2019 Calling all culture vultures! Don’t miss out on the chance to see Dippy the dinosaur as he enjoys his new home at the Great North Museum: Hancock, all the way from London’s Natural History Museum. This iconic cultural landmark will be available for visitors to admire until Sunday 6th October 2019.

Barras Bridge, NE2 4PT, greatnorthmuseum.org.uk

VICTORIA & ALBERT: OUR LIVES IN WATERCOLOUR UNTIL 14 SEPTEMBER 2019 Showcasing rare watercolours loaned from the Royal Collection, Victoria & Albert: Our Lives in Watercolour takes over the prime exhibition space at the Laing Art Gallery this summer. Including over 60 different works, this exclusive exhibition offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Victorian Britain during the period of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s marriage. This exhibition also marks the bicentenary of their births in 1819 and displays vibrant, dynamic watercolour pieces that highlight the grandeur of British politics and foreign travel.

Alongside an enthralling insight into British monarchy, visitors will be treated to rare watercolours by local architect John Dobson, curated by the gallery. Amongst these pieces, guests can marvel at an 1850s Newcastle Central Station and gaze at the city’s iconic High Level Bridge. Head over to this cultural haven for a history lesson like no other.

New Bridge Street, NE1 8AG, laingartgallery.org.uk

© Trustees of the Natural History Museum

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MAKE A DAY OF IT

Venturing further afield Time to explore some more of the North East region. Five coastal, country and cultural days out near NewcastleGateshead...

BEAMISH MUSEUM A family day out with history at its heart, Beamish is certainly worth a visit this summer. The living museum, set in 300 acres of picturesque Durham countryside, provides a great opportunity to discover what life between the 1820s and 1940s was truly like.

Take a break between Games events to see realistic towns, farms and collieries in the open-air museum that vividly illustrates the region’s history.

Regional Resource Centre, Beamish, DH9 0RG, beamish.org.uk, worldtransplantgames.org/tours-and-excursions

NORTHUMBERLANDIA Get the best of the great British countryside at Northumberlandia - a stunning stroll with a sculptural twist, set in a 19-hectare community park with four miles of footpaths on and around the landform. A cafe, a visitor centre and several walks make up the parkland, with the centrepiece being ‘The Lady of the North’ – a stunning human landform sculpture of a reclining lady, spanning a quarter of a mile. So if you love getting out in the great outdoors – with a bit of cultural fun thrown in for good measure – then round up the troops and head for Northumberlandia.

Fisher Ln, Cramlington, NE23 8AU, northumberlandia.com

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MAKE A DAY OF IT

SEGEDUNUM ROMAN FORT & MUSEUM For a bit of good old North East history, visit Segedunum Roman Fort & Museum in Wallsend. It remains a major site on Hadrian’s Wall, complete with an interactive museum to guide visitors through the Wall’s 73-mile journey from the River Tyne to the Solway Firth. At a small price of less than £6 (kids under 16 go free), you can’t go wrong with visiting this history and archaeology haven in the North East.

Buddle Street, Wallsend, NE28 6HR, segedunumromanfort.org.uk

SOUTER LIGHTHOUSE Explore the world’s first ever electric lighthouse, take in the amazing views over Lizard Point and the North Sea, and discover a lost village. That’s what you can expect to do on your visit to Souter Lighthouse and The Leas. Fancy a snack? Take time out to indulge in mouth-watering refreshments in the Lighthouse Café.

Coast Road, Sunderland, SR6 7NH, nationaltrust.org.uk/souterlighthouse-and-the-leas

THE ALNWICK GARDEN As winner of The North East Top Large Visitor attraction in 2018, The Alnwick Garden is bound to keep you interested during your visit. Marvel at the sight of 120 water jet Grand Cascade, have lunch in one of the largest treehouses in the world and browse a complex of formal gardens all in one place. It’s a beautiful spot to relax, unwind and take in the true beauty of Northumberland.

Denwick Lane, Alnwick, NE66 1YU, alnwickgarden.com worldtransplantgames.org/tours-and-excursions

©National Trust: Trevor Hart

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LAST WORD

A huge thanks to...

World Transplant Games 2019 are delivered by destination management and marketing organisation NewcastleGateshead Initiative on behalf of the World Transplant Games Federation and Transplant Sport and in partnership with the following: MLS Contracts Newcastle City Council Gateshead Council Sunderland City Council Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Northumbria University Newcastle University Donor Family Network The Games delivery partners would like to thank the following organisations for their support: GAMES SUPPORTERS Westfield Health NHS Blood and Transplant HSBC UK IN-KIND SUPPORTERS Collingwood Insurance Bidfood Frontier Group Go North East Graham Wylie Foundation Greggs Lookers NEXUS Northumbrian Water Remember Media RICOH Sage Foundation SHA TSG United Carlton

SPORTS SPONSORS Brewin Dolphin (badminton) CHUF: Children’s Heart Fund Unit (Gift of Life Run Children’s 3k) INEOS (cycling) Fairstone Group (tennis and basketball) PHA UK (pétanque)

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Tombola (swimming) True Potential (athletics) SUPPORTING PARTNERS Accenture AON Barbour Foundation Barclays Berry’s Jewellers Richard Cansdale Drummond Central Evolve North GOJO Home Group The Jemima Layzell Trust LGA Foundation Liver North Masonic Society Newcastle International Airport North East Ambulance Service Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust Papillon Translations Parkdean Resorts Shire Aggregates Stanley Travel The Biscuit Factory The Meeting and Events Team Travel Bureau VENUES Life Science Centre Close House Golf Club Eagles Community Arena Gateshead International Stadium Hetton Lyons Country Park Hollywood Bowl Washington NAMCO Funscape St. James’ Park Sage Gateshead Sport Central Sunderland Aquatic Centre The Northumberland Club The Town Moor – thanks to the Freemen of Newcastle Utilita Arena Plus all our accommodation partners

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