The second installation of the Invictus Games will take place next week on U.S. soil in Orlando, Florida. It’s an exciting time for all of those involved, but you wouldn’t be the only one scratching your head and asking, “Exactly what are the Invictus Games?” Well, scratch no more. We are your Invictus Games wiki, and we have you covered on everything you need to know.
How Did the Invictus Games Start?
The Invictus Games were started in 2014 by Prince Harry of Wales, the younger brother of Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge. According to the Invictus Games Foundation, the intent of the games is to “use the power of sport to inspire recovery and generate a wider understanding and respect for wounded, injured, and sick Servicemen and women.” A former army man himself, this was undoubtedly a cause true to Prince Harry’s heart.
Where Do The Games Take Place?
The very first games took place in London, England, in 2014. There were no games in 2015, and this year’s events are set to happen in Orlando, Florida between May 8th and May 12th. Next year’s games will take place in Toronto, Canada. The Invictus Foundation is responsible for selecting host cities and seeing through the execution of the games.
What Actually Happens at the Invictus Games?
The Invictus Games are formatted similar to the Olympics and feature wounded war personnel and veterans competing in sports like indoor rowing, bench pressing, and wheelchair basketball. More than just competition, the Invictus Games bring awareness to these veterans and service people and remind the world that their lives were forever changed through their commitment to their countries.
The lead-up to this year’s games has been a lot fun. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted a video in which he does pushups with the Canadian Invictus team and playfully jibes President Barack Obama and the Royal Family. Prior to that, the Obamas, Barak and Michelle, sent out a friendly video where they told Prince Harry to “be careful what you wish for.” Prince Harry answered back with a video of his own, showing the Queen responding to the Obama’s video by saying “Oh, please.”
This was obviously all in good fun, and it was all in promotion for what has been an inspiring movement and recognition of veterans and current servicemen and women.
