A Bradford man whose life was transformed by a kidney transplant will represent Team GB at the World Transplant Games.
Craig Sutcliffe, 53, from Thackley, will compete in Leuven, Belgium, in August 2027 after winning silver in the men’s 50-59 cycling time trial and road race at this year’s British Transplant Games in Sheffield.
The achievement comes more than two years after Mr Sutcliffe received a kidney from his wife, Julie, in a rare donor match that changed his life.
“Being selected for Team GB is the ultimate prize, I was almost in tears, honestly,” he said.
“To represent your country, it’s brilliant.
Craig and Julie Sutcliffe (Image: Craig Sutcliffe)
“I think it sums up what organ donation can do to somebody.”
Selection chances were '50/50'
Mr Sutcliffe was just days away from starting dialysis when tests confirmed his wife was a suitable donor.
The transplant took place at St James's Hospital in Leeds in April 2024 after tests showed Julie was an unusually close match.
After competing for Team Leeds at this summer’s British Transplant Games in Sheffield, Mr Sutcliffe learned he had been selected for Team GB.
Team Leeds (Image: Craig Sutcliffe)
He explained he had been unable to compete at the European Transplant Games, meaning he felt his chances of selection for Team GB were "50/50".
"I must have done quite well," he added.
Craig's message on organ donation
Mr Sutcliffe wants to raise awareness of organ donation and urge people to discuss their wishes with their families before they need a transplant.
He warned that some families refuse organ donation after a relative dies, despite knowing their loved one wanted to be a donor.
“That’s happening quite a lot now, and it’s a bit worrying.
“I understand if somebody just died it's a bit raw, but it does really help people a lot.
Craig Sutcliffe competing for Team Leeds at the British Transplant Games. (Image: Craig Sutcliffe)
“There are people dying weekly waiting for transplants, so it would help tremendously."
He also paid tribute to his wife.
“Julie's my main supporter, my best supporter,” he said.
“She gave me a kidney, she makes sure I eat right, she makes sure I'm training.”
Fundraising efforts
Mr Sutcliffe is stepping up his preparations for Belgium after joining a cycling club to improve his performance.
Despite his Team GB selection, Mr Sutcliffe is keeping his expectations modest.
He said a top-10 finish in Belgium would be a major achievement and that he was focused on improving each year, although he joked that a medal might persuade him to "retire and live peacefully and happily".
The podium at the British Transplant Games. (Image: Craig Sutcliffe)
Team GB athletes must fund their own travel, accommodation and kit, so he aims to raise around £3,000 through fundraising events.
Plans include sports dinners, auction nights and a sponsored “piano-thon”, with Mr Sutcliffe hoping to play alongside other musicians for up to 24 hours.
Mr Sutcliffe has also launched a GoFundMe page and is asking local businesses for support.
“It’s about putting Bradford on the map, really,” he said.
“I’m a proud Bradfordian, I love being from Bradford.”