Racing Down the Track at High Speeds
Prince Harry, accompanied by his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, visited Whistler, British Columbia, to support and promote the Invictus Games—an event he founded for wounded, injured, or sick service personnel and veterans. In an adrenaline-fueled display of courage, the British prince raced head-first on a tiny skeleton sled, reaching speeds of 99 kph (61.5 mph) down one of the world’s fastest bobsled tracks.
A First for Winter Sports
The upcoming 2025 games in Vancouver and Whistler will mark the introduction of winter sports to the Invictus Games. Alongside classic events such as indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and wheelchair basketball, the 2025 games will feature thrilling sports like skeleton and skiing events, as well as wheelchair curling.
Prince Harry’s Enthusiasm Shines
Amidst the cheering of spectators and the ringing of cowbells at the end of his first run, Prince Harry joyfully exclaimed that everyone should experience the thrill of skeleton sledding, stating, “it should be compulsory.” His wife, Meghan, awaited his arrival at the bottom of the track, but declined the opportunity to try the sport herself.
The Power of Adaptive Sports
The Invictus Games hold a special significance for wounded service members like Ivan Morera, an American single-arm amputee who was injured in combat in Afghanistan. Morera expressed his gratitude towards Prince Harry for providing injured individuals with an avenue to rediscover purpose through adaptive sports. He highlighted how participating in sports helps him cope with the emotional and mental challenges that arise from such life-altering experiences.
A Global Celebration of Resilience
The 2025 Invictus Games will bring together approximately 500 competitors from 23 nations. Taking place from February 8th to 16th, 2025, the event will serve as a platform for athletes to showcase their strength, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.
