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Aussie Wins Then “Loses” Gold in Europe
18 July 2008
Queensland double-lung transplant recipient Michelle Ashby has won the 4km cross country event in the 12th European Heart and Lung Transplant Games, decked out proudly in her Aussie uniform.
The 40-year-old Gold Coast resident competed in Vichy, France in June as part of the Great Britain team. As a “guest” she was warned by officials before the race she was not eligible for any medals because she was not from Europe.
Michelle was the first female across the finishing line and to her great surprise was called to accept her gold medal in a brief moment of unexpected glory.
“I was awarded the Gold medal so I graciously accepted, had my photos taken and was then approached by one of the organisers who told me he had to take the medal off me,” Michelle said.
“Those who got to know me at the Games are still laughing that I was stripped of my medal and disgraced but it was great exposure as it was announced I was from Australia here to promote the World Transplant Games. All was not lost.”
The European Heart and Lung Transplant Games were first staged 24 years ago as organisers and athletes felt these transplant recipients were struggling to compete against other recipients, due to the nature of their condition before and post transplant. At this year’s event a total of 235 athletes and 165 supporters took part.
“The ratio of competitors was 90% hearts and 10% lungs which was very interesting,” said Michelle, whose sister Karen accompanied her to the Games.
“What an amazing week. I was flat out checking out all the venues, watching as many events as I could, talking to anyone who would look sideways at me and trying to convince them to come to the Gold Coast for the next World Transplant Games in August ’09. I also met with the Organising Committee and Games’ officials.
“Vichy is a pretty city with its lake, gorgeous old buildings and great shopping (even better than Paris). I had a ball participating in the Games and travelling with my sister. It’s an experience I’ll hold close to my heart forever.”