The Transplant Games of America is drawing record participation in Denver this week, with more than 2,000 registered athletes from 44 teams and thousands of supporters gathering to celebrate the transplant community.

The six-day event, organized by the nonprofit Transplant Life Foundation, runs June 18-23 and is expected to attract about 12,000 participants. The games bring together transplant recipients, living donors, donor families, people awaiting transplants, caregivers and medical professionals for athletic competitions and community events.

Organizers said the 2026 event is the largest Transplant Games since 2011 and includes competitors ranging in age from 2 to 92. Athletes and participants have traveled from across the United States as well as from Australia, England, Thailand and Panama.

This year’s event also marks the first appearance of a team composed entirely of military veterans connected to transplantation.

One of the week’s highlights came with a successful Guinness World Records attempt for the largest gathering of living donors and organ recipients in one place at the same time. Participants held signs identifying their donations and transplanted organs as officials verified the 966 individuals gathered.

Bill Ryan, founder and CEO of the Transplant Life Foundation, joined Guinness World Records officials and supporters during the record-setting event.

“Everything you do, donations, participation, or simply the act of learning, is your legacy at saving a life,” Ryan said in a news release.

Zach Brooks, a member of the Denver Host Committee and competitor for Team Rocky Mountain, said the gathering of this unique community was indescribable.

“I’m at a loss for words. There is such an appreciation for what is possible in life,” Brooks said.

Brooks, who received transplanted organs from both of his parents, also earned a bronze medal in cycling during the games.

“It’s been very special seeing the games come here,” Brooks said. “I’ve never felt more proud to be from Colorado.”

The Colorado native said the event showcased Denver’s hospitality.

“I’m really proud of Denver. I’m really proud of how well Denver hosts people, how well they make people feel at home,” Brooks said.

The Transplant Life Foundation, founded in 2011, organizes the biennial games as part of its mission to support and connect the transplant community. Competition continues through June 23 with events including golf, badminton, bowling and volleyball before closing ceremonies.