The world Transplant Games have been in existence for over 25 years when the first 'Transplant Olympics' were held in Portsmouth in 1978. At that time, these Games were an international event and included teams from France, Germany, Greece and the United States.

The first Games that included slightly less than 100 competitors and since then the games have grown exponentially. Initially, the International Summer Games were held every two years. In Nancy, France in 2003 there were some 1,500 competitors from 55 countries talking part. In the intervening years the Winter Games are staged, the most recent being in Bormio, Italy in January 2004.

Currently there are 68 member countries of the World Transplant Games Federation, most of which have their own National Transplant Sports organisations. In addition to the World Games, there are also many Regional Games throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and in future there will be games held in South America and Africa.

The competitors are unique in that each one of them is alive as a result of successful organ transplant. Competitors must be medically fit with no significant complications of chronic organ failure or immunosuppressive therapy. World Transplant Games' competitors demonstrate the level of health and vitality that can be achieved after transplantation. The Games embrace all ages, anyone from 4-80 years old who has received a life-support organ transplant more than one year before the Games,

Core sporting events include Track and Field, Swimming, Tennis, Table Tennis, Badminton, Squash, Golf, Cycling, Volleyball, Lawn Bowls and Ten Pin Bowling. The 100 meters has a record of 11.18 seconds and the long jump 6.95 meters!