Before 2 organ transplants, he could hardly walk. Now, he's the world's fastest cyclist for his age

Cycling is an excellent way to get outdoors and stay in shape, but for Greg Wilkinson it was a pathway back to active life after a liver and kidney transplant.

Since his surgeries, Wilkinson has competed in multiple events at the World Transplant Games and is currently the world's fastest double-transplant cyclist in his 70s.

He spoke with Afternoon Drive host Matt Allen about the role the sport has played in his life. 

The following has been edited for length and clarity

Matt Allen: How did you get into cycling?

Greg Wilkinson: It all started when I was diagnosed with polycystic kidney and liver disease. That was way back in the 80s, and when I was in my 20s. It's a genetic disease that just gradually destroys your liver and your kidneys.

I lived with that for about 35 years until I eventually needed a transplant, but something really influenced me. 

In 2005, the World Transplant Games were held in London, and knowing that there was a transplant in my future, I thought I'd go down and have a look. The bike races for the World Transplant Games in London were actually held in Springbank Park, which is just a couple of kilometers away from where I live.

I was absolutely amazed. These were not sick people. They had everything from plonkers like me to elite, elite athletes. That provided the inspiration to know that there was light at the end of the tunnel. 

Matt Allen: What do you compete in and how does it work? 

GW: There are three goals for the games. One is to get people moving after a transplant because a lot of people were like me, they've been sick for decades. Frankly, a lot of us have forgotten what it felt like to feel good. And so the first goal is to get people moving after transplant.

The second is to