This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
One of those competitions that touches the heart and opens eyes will be coming to Salt Lake City in 2018.
The Donate Life Transplant Games will take place Aug. 2-7 of that year, bringing an estimated 8,000 visitors for 20 athletic events and activities that raise awareness "for the life-altering benefits brought about by the transplantation of organs, tissue and corneas," said Jeff Robbins, president and CEO of the Utah Sports Commission.
The commission teamed with Intermountain Donor Services, the University of Utah Solid Organ Transplant Program and Visit Salt Lake as local partners with the sponsor, Transplant Games of America.
"Organ transplants save thousands of lives each year, and the Transplant Games celebrate the gift of life by honoring recipients, donors and donor families," Robbins said.
"We have witnessed firsthand the tremendous experiences and opportunities the Games provide," concurred Tracy Schmidt, Intermountain Donor Services executive director.
The competition is expected to generate $8 million for the economy, Robbins said, calling it a "big win" for the state. "It will bring a new group of visitors to experience Utah," he added, and will show that people can participate in athletic competitions even after undergoing a transplant.
Bill Ryan, Transplant Games of America president and CEO, said Salt Lake City's "exceptional bid" for the competition exhibited an "overwhelming commitment to the rich history of the Transplant Games and the cause of donation and transplantation."
Ryan especially praised Intermountain Donor Services and the medical community for their support.