Richard, who will captain the cycling team, will be one of over 1,000 transplant recipients taking part to raise awareness both here in the UK and internationally, of the need for organ donors, and to celebrate their second chance at life.
Athletes were selected following their outstanding performances at the recent British Transplant Games in Sheffield in August 2008 where Richard won gold medals in both the road race and the time trial events, retaining the British title he has held since 1999.
Richard is a long-term member of Wrekinsport cycling club competing regularly in events around Shropshire.
Footsteps He has represented the United Kingdom on four previous occasions in Hungary (1999), Japan (2001), France (2003) and, most recently, Thailand in 2007. He is the current world champion in his age group in both the time trial and the road race.
Richard will be supported by his children, Charlie (12) and Grace (9), who whilst not being able to make the trip with their father both follow in his sporting footsteps. Grace plays football for Wolves u10’s while Charlie represents Shropshire at table tennis at u13’s. Both are players with Bridgnorth Rugby Club where Richard is an assistant coach for the u13’s team.
Richard had a life saving liver transplant over 15 years ago at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham after a very short and acute illness, going into hospital in a coma and being given 48 hours to live. Without this life saving operation he wouldn’t be competing in Australia.
“Being asked to represent your country is a huge honour, to be a captain within the team even more so.
“The Games have played an important role in helping me live a full and active life giving me an important target, following my successful transplant,” said Richard.
“This event is highly competitive but is also a vital part of the rehabilitation process and gives all competitors a focus, as well being a place to celebrate the gift of life and an opportunity to thank our donors and their families.
“The whole team is looking forward to the buzz and excitement on The Gold Coast, where we plan to bring back a host of gold medals inspired by British success in the Tour de France and the Olympic Games.”
Supported by the International Olympic Committee, the World Transplant Games, which is held every two years, represent the largest organ donor awareness event in the world, featuring a nine day series of sporting events.
