After a splendid display, Loftus left the other athletes behind, as he won the race in 100-meter sprint 15.26 and the 200m sprint in seconds. John, a kidney recipient, started competing in European and World games in 2007. From his first ever tournament (Bangkok) where he won silver, John has made quite a name for himself as a world-class sprinter. Since then, every year Loftus has won Gold in both the 100 meter and 200 meter sprint.

At the trackside, John expressed how he felt about this years world games. “I would like to comment on the spirit of the Irish team. It’s phenomenal considering the size of the country and the population and how well the Irish transplant team has done. This year, the addition of the juniors on the team has given a major lift to the team.

“It’s absolutely fantastic. Holding on the world title's was very important to me. To retain it is the biggest thing. I want to say a big thank you to Clare Hogan (physio) who played a big role in preparing my body for the race. I always want to thank my donor and my own family; Trish, Evan, Craig, Kyle and Tara. Thank you for all your support. Thanks to all the staff at Thomand Asset Management for looking after the place while I am away.”

This is Ireland’s biggest ever team competing at the World Transplant Games. The Irish team of 33 athletes range in age from 9 to 70+ and are among 1100 athletes from over 50 countries who are participate in the Games which are being held in Gothenburg. The Team will return home to Ireland on Friday, 24th June.

The Irish Team members have all received major organ transplants including heart, lung, liver, kidney and pancreas. The Irish Kidney Association is responsible for managing Transplant Team Ireland’s participation at the Games.