Invictus Games
The Invictus Games is a multi-sport event intended for wounded soldiers. “Invictus” is a Latin word meaning unconquered or invincible, a suitable name for a new major event. The event is held annually in locations around the world. Sports included in the games are wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, indoor rowing and many more.
The Invictus Games was mainly inspired by the Warrior Games, a similar tournament which is held in the United States. Prince Harry saw a British team competing at the US Warrior Games in 2013; so he brought the concept of a similar international sporting event to England, and now the world.
Prince Harry introduced the Invictus Games back on March 6, 2014 at the London’s Copper Box Arena, the venue for the 2012 Olympics. A total of £1 million funding was given by the Royal Foundation, a charity established by Prince Harry, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, William and Kate.
Wheelchair tennis player at the 2016 Invictus GamesThe first Games was held on September 10 to 14, 2014. There were 300 competitors from 13 countries which have fought alongside the United Kingdom in recent military campaigns involved – 8 countries from Europe, 2 countries from Asia, 2 countries from North America and 2 countries from Oceana. Iraq didn’t join, though they were invited.
The Invictus Games focuses on Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have been brave to fight and protect their country, showing how they and their families are cherished, appreciated and supported. For the opponents, it will present an outstanding, moving and refreshing experience in their flight to recovery.
The 4th Invictus Games was held in Sydney, Australia, from Oct 20-27, 2018.
The 5th games were scheduled to be held in 2020 in The Hague, Netherlands in May 2020, but were postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. They were then scheduled to take place from May 29 to June 5, 2021, but were postponed again, and were finally held in April 2022.
Next Invictus Games
- 2023: The 6th Invictus Games are to be held in Düsseldorf, Germany in 2023.
- 2025: the 6th Invictus Games are to be held in Vancouver and Whistler, and set to include adaptive winter sports for the first time.
Related Pages
- More major events for athletes with a disability
- Other International Multi-Events
- Paralympics
- Multi-Sport Events (Games) Calendar
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