5th August 2014

ROYALS IN PRIVATE VISIT TO SEE COMPETITORS GET ON TRACK FOR INVICTUS GAMES

 

5 August 2014 – The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry today surprised Invictus Games hopefuls with an impromptu visit to the final trial session ahead of the British Armed Forces team selection.

Those vying for a place in the athletics team were being put through their paces on the track and in the field at Lee Valley Athletics Centre, London, when they were joined by the two Royal guests. Prince William and Prince Harry spent more than an hour speaking with the Servicemen and women hoping to be involved in the sporting competition for ‘wounded warriors’, now little more than a month away.

As the day reached its climax, The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry waited at the finish line to cheer on the 200m and 100m sprinters. Earlier they had made their own way around the track to speak with those looking to take part in the throwing disciplines including discus, javelin and shot put. The visit reflected the support and backing of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry for the Invictus Games, presented by Jaguar Land Rover, which run from 10-14 September.

Kushal Limbu, who clocked the fastest time of the day over 100m, is one of those who competed at the Warrior Games in the US last year. The domestic event was the source of inspiration behind Prince Harry’s vision to bring an international sporting competition for wounded, injured and sick Service personnel to London. The Invictus Games will recognise the sacrifices they have made but focus on what they can achieve, post-injury.

“I used to do sports before my injury, so it was always part of my life,” Kushal said today. “It helped me so much during my recovery. I think it’s important for every injured person. By doing this competition we’ll get lots of motivation, lots of mental support. If you want to see me running in the Invictus Games please come and watch!”

Invictus is Latin for unconquered, a word that embodies the fighting spirit of wounded, injured and sick Servicemen and women. The Invictus Games are a unique chance for the public to celebrate this ‘invictus spirit’ through sporting achievement venues made famous by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Tickets are on sale at www.invictusgames.org and cost £12.85.

The Invictus Games are being organised with the support and backing of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry and the Ministry of Defence. Launched by Prince Harry earlier this year, the event will use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect of those who serve their country.

To watch a short film of the athletics trial attended by The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry click here: http://youtu.be/E4HRs1WIL1Y.