11th September 2014

IT JUST GETS BETTER AND BETTER FOR CANADA'S STEPHAN MOREAU WHO HAD THE CHANCE TO MEET PRINCE HARRY AND THE DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE DURING THE FIRST DAY OF THE INVICTUS GAMES

11 September 2014 - After competing in the final of the men's IT6 400 metres Canada's Stephan Moreau says it's been one highlight after another at this year's Invictus Games, presented by Jaguar Land Rover.

Moreau, who suffers from post traumatic stress disorder after witnessing an accident on a ship in 2004, was greeted by the roar of the crowd at the Lee Valley Athletics Centre as he crossed the line in 62.59.

The Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick service personnel and is championed by Prince Harry.

And Moreau, who lives in Victoria, British Columbia, admits just having the chance to compete was his highlight until he had the chance to meet Prince Harry and the Duke of Cambridge.

“It's unbelievable being here at the athletics. From day one when we arrived at the airport we had people coming to us and introducing themselves to us, and helping us,” he said.

“I have a different highlight every five minutes. I just went to the bathroom and as I went to the door both prince William and prince Harry were there.

“I was shocked that they were using the same bathroom as everybody else. It's awesome, I loved it! I was like they were normal people, just like me.

“We had a talk, and we took a photo once we were outside.

“We've been amazed by how well organised it is and how nice people are as well - it's a totally different level to what we expected.”

An equipment malfunction in 2004 led to the accident and Moreau witnessed as many on board were injured.

But being in London for the Invictus Games has helped the 41-year-old to connect with others in his position and it's something he says he will never forget.

“It means a lot to me. I've done lower scale sporting events and other activities with people who have PTSD,” he added.

“When I get together with the other athletes it's like we're friends straight away as you don't have to explain your situation to each other.

“We understand each other well and it's really easy to be open with everyone here.”