Yesterday Prince Harry announced that the second Invictus Games for injured service personnel and veterans will be held in Florida, USA, in 2016.
The inaugural 2014 Games in London brought together more than 400 current and former personnel from 13 nations with the aim of using the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding of and respect for those who serve their country.
Throughout the Games, the inspiring and uplifting personal stories of the competitors highlighted the role that sport and rehabilitation have played on their road to recovery, often opening doors to a new future.
Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said:
I am delighted that the Invictus Games 2016 will once again showcase the drive and determination of our wounded servicemen and women to overcome life-changing injuries. They are a true inspiration and I look forward to watching them compete in Orlando next year.
Sport remains a crucial means of helping Service personnel regain confidence following injury and Britain’s world class Battle Back sport programme is just one of our commitments to supporting our people recover to the best of their ability. The Battle Back programme uses sport and adventurous training to help individuals improve their resilience, develop confidence, improve motivation and develop positive relationships that will enhance recovery.
Britain’s veterans performed exceptionally well in the Games last September. The team included Nick Beighton, a former Royal Engineer who lost both his legs after stepping on an IED in Afghanistan, and won four gold medals in the Indoor Rowing, and was trained and supported by the MOD and Help for Heroes. Last year’s competitors were put through their paces during nationwide trials before taking part in events including archery, athletics, wheelchair basketball and rugby, cycling, powerlifting, indoor rowing, swimming and sitting volleyball.
The Invictus Games took place at venues made famous by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Next year’s Games will be hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando and will be staged from May 8-12.
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