Team UAE’s historic debut at the World Transplant Games has become a powerful symbol of hope and strength, as the team celebrates a series of remarkable medal wins – including two standout golds from Fatima Rashid in the javelin throw and Omar “OT” Tom in the 200m sprint. Their victories not only mark personal triumphs but also shine a spotlight on the resilience of the transplant community, marking an unforgettable statement on the global stage.
These achievements follow an earlier win in the week, where Katie Larkins and Husena Beguwala claimed bronze in the Pétanque Pairs event, earning Team UAE its first podium finish of the Games. Adding to the momentum, Fatima also added to the tally with a bronze medal in the 200m sprint, showcasing her versatility and determination across multiple disciplines.
Fatima Rashid, a kidney transplant recipient and passionate advocate for kidney health and mental well-being, took gold in javelin. Reflecting on her javelin win and sprint bronze medal, Fatima said:
“It’s all so surreal. I was very focused on the sprints and honestly javelin took a sidestep as a result, but I’m definitely very, very proud that we can bring back something and show our transplant community the hope that is possible.”
Fatima’s journey exemplifies resilience. A certified rescue diver, rock climber, and CrossFit enthusiast, she competed in multiple events – each one a tribute to movement, recovery, and the gift of life.
Also representing the UAE in the sprint events is Omar “OT” Tom who won gold, a two-time kidney transplant recipient and entrepreneur. Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease as a child, Omar defied medical expectations. He underwent his first transplant at 21, donated by his father, and later received a second kidney from his brother after six years.
Now an accomplished business owner and competitive post-transplant athlete, Omar said:
“I am deeply grateful for the gold, but it’s not what the World Transplant Games are about, it is a celebration of miracles.
This is a celebration of every step since I received my kidneys from my father (2010) and brother (2016). Every moment has been a miracle. I’m thankful that God blessed me with a chance to bring my kidneys from the Middle East to the world stage. May we continue to have hope, courage and gratitude for the future.”
Team UAE’s participation is supported by Hayat, the National Programme for Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation. Their debut at the Games follows the UAE’s official membership in the World Transplant Games Federation (WTGF) in 2024 – a landmark moment that opened the doors for transplant recipients across the Emirates to compete and connect on a global stage.
Katie Larkins , liver transplant recipient and Team Captain & Manager said: “I’m really proud of how the team has performed in our debut entrance to the WTG. The team has worked incredibly hard to be here, and I think we’ve represented the UAE well. It’s an amazing feeling to be bringing home 5 medals! My hope is that we’ve highlighted what’s possible with the generous gift of organ donation and that we can inspire other transplant recipients in the UAE to make the best of their second chances.”
I’d also like to give my sincerest thanks to our sponsors: Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Mediclinic Perform, Asics, Warehouse Gym, Runnies sunglasses, AIS Dubai, Rebrand.ae, StickyGinger, Tribe w nos, Chop em Down Films, and K-Cal. We could not have done this without them.
Team UAE Athletes:
- Omar “OT” Tom – Kidney transplant recipient
- Fatima Rashid – Kidney transplant recipient
- Fatima Hind – Living kidney donor
- Justin Anthony – Double lung transplant recipient
- Katie Larkins – Liver transplant recipient, Team Captain & Manager
- Husena Beguwala – Double lung transplant recipient