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Transplant athlete Lewis Evans has won four gold medals and broken two world records at the World Transplant Games in Perth, Australia.

After being diagnosed with stage five kidney failure in 2015, Evans, from Machen, was told he would need a new kidney to live.

Fortunately for the then-21-year-old, Evans’ mother was a match and he successfully recovered from the illness in 2017.

While on dialysis in 2016 however, Evans began preparations to compete at the highest level. He said: “I grew up playing rugby but knew that wouldn’t be an option once I got better so I turned to athletics.

“I wanted to keep fit for my health but also knew I’d have a chance of competing in the Transplant Games in the future, so I started training.”

Evans went on to represent Team GB at the games in 2019 across several different track events, including the 100 and 200 metre sprint.

He continued: “It was a good experience but Perth in April was really when it all took off for me. I won gold in the 100 and 200 metre, and two relay races. I was chuffed.”

As well as winning gold, Evans also broke the world transplant record for the 100 and 200 metre, with the 200 metre record having stood for 15 years prior to Evans setting a time of 22.45 seconds.

“It was an amazing feeling honestly to have come as far as I have”, Evans said. “I feel faster than I did before the problems”, he added.

Asked about what his future holds, Evans said: “I’m taking the summer off because the games was quite intense, but I’m aiming to get back into training this September and will hopefully be ready for the European Games next year.”

Caerphilly Senedd Member Hefin David met Evans when he visited the Senedd and said: “I’m thrilled to be able to meet Lewis and celebrate his achievements at the World Transplant Games.

“His achievements are inspirational and I am so pleased to invite him to meet the First Minister at the Senedd.”