THE 1996 U.S. TRANSPLANT GAMES
Introduction

General Introduction

Games are open to any individual who has received a life-saving organ transplant - heart, liver, lung, kidney, pancreas, or bone marrow. Activities include sports competition, social activities, special events and other transplant-related activities.

The 1996 U.S. Transplant Games will be the largest gathering of transplant recipients in history. Over 1,500 athletes (forming approximately 52 teams) are expected to participate in the 1996 Games, which will be held August 22-25 on the campus of the University of Utah. This unique Olympic-style competition is organized by the National Kidney Foundation .

Athletic Events

Individual Sports

Athletes will compete individually in the following medal sports. (Medals will be awarded to the top male and female in each age category.)

Team Sports

In addition, teams will compete in the following sports:

Athletic Event Particulars

The information in this section is provided only to serve as a guide for the many questions that may arise about participation in the U.S. Transplant Games. Much of this material is tentative and is subject to change as Games planning progresses. The information in this section is current as of March 1, 1996.

The U.S. Transplant Games is open to any individual with a currently functioning life-saving solid organ transplant (including bone marrow). Foreign athletes are welcome to compete, but will only earn duplicate medals.

Athletes will compete by sex in the following age groups: 17 and under, 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46-55, and 56 and over. In certain events, there will be special heats for young athletes under 14 years of age. For seeded events or sports, there will be a separate heat or bracket for each age group if eight or more individuals compete. In all other cases, age groups may be combined in the interests of competition and meet management.

All events have a maximum number of competitors. When the maximum number is reached, no additional entries will be allowed in that event.

Due to the large number of athletes expected, athletes will be allowed to enter four (4) events, excluding the 5K road race, all team events (3 on 3 basketball, team bowling, and team golf), and all relay events (the 4 x 50 swimming relay and the 4 x 100 and 4 x 400 track relays).

Athletes may not enter events that take place at the same time (except field events contested cafeteria style). Failure of an athlete to appear at any event when called may result in the athlete being scratched or eliminated from that competition--there will be no appeal of any scratches for failure to appear.

Special Events

The Games will feature a host of activities bringing athletes and their families together. Old friendships will be rekindled and new relationships will be formed while participants enjoy the grandeur and natural beauty of the West. Special events include:

Activities for Donor Families

Donor families from around the country are invited to participate in a program created just for them. The National Donor Family Council is planning sharing sessions, workshops and other activities for families' education and support.
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Last modified: 11 May 2000