ITALY is calling for Annandale athlete Linda Owen who is heading to the World Transplant Winter Games.
The event in Bormio starts on Sunday and runs until Friday, March 8 and it will be Linda’s third Games.
This time she’s competing in both curling and snow-shoeing and hoping to add to her current medal collection of a gold, silver and bronze.
She said: “I’ve won medals in these events in the past so will be trying to do the same again, this time with the lovely backdrop of the Italian Alps.”
The mum-of-two, who underwent a heart transplant ten years ago just after the birth of her twins, added: “The main aim of the games is to promote organ donation and celebrate life.”
Linda, who lives in Eaglesfield and works for the NHS and is also a Rainbows and Brownie leader, will be part of Team GB and NI, which is the largest of the 25 teams taking part in the Games.
Team manager Lynne Holt said: “We are delighted to be demonstrating the benefits of transplantation. It is always a little daunting competing at the World Transplant Games, but with the help of those who have been before, the experience will be a rewarding one for all involved.
“The opportunity to compete, celebrate life and in doing so, paying tribute to their donors, is the goal.”
The World Transplant Winter Games (WTGF) usually take place every two years and are supported by the International Olympic Committee.
WTGF president Liz Schick added: “A special thanks to all donors and donor families. Without them, we simply wouldn’t be here.”
