WHISTLER, British Columbia - Prince Harry, along with his wife Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, made a visit to the 2025 Invictus Games training camps in Whistler, British Columbia. The royal couple spent time with athletes and showcased their support for the games that the prince founded. The Invictus Games provide a platform for wounded, injured, or sick service personnel and veterans to compete in various sports.
During their visit, Prince Harry demonstrated his adventurous side by taking on a challenging thrill ride down the bobsled track. With a beaming smile, the prince raced down the track on a tiny skeleton sled, reaching an impressive speed of 99 kph (61.5 mph). After the exhilarating ride, he passionately expressed that this experience should be compulsory for everyone.
Whistler's bobsled track, renowned as one of the fastest in the world, will serve as the venue for the 2025 Invictus Games. The upcoming edition of the games will not only feature winter sports like skeleton and skiing events but will also include disciplines from previous games such as indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair rugby, and wheelchair basketball.
As Prince Harry finished his first run, the sound of cowbells filled the air, celebrating his achievement. With a sense of fulfillment and excitement, he took off his helmet and shared his belief that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the adrenaline rush of sliding down a track.
His wife, Meghan, awaited him at the bottom of the track, witnessing his daring feat. Encouragement came from the onlookers as they urged Meghan to try it as well. However, she responded with a playful refusal - 'No way.'
The Invictus Games hold immense significance for individuals like Ivan Morera, an American single-arm amputee who sustained injuries in Afghanistan. Morera, who was present at the training camp in Whistler, expressed his gratitude towards the prince for providing a platform for service members to find purpose after their injuries. Crediting adaptive sports as a means of emotional and mental recovery, Morera emphasized the impact of such events in supporting individuals who have been through catastrophic events.
The 2025 Invictus Games will welcome approximately 500 competitors from 23 nations. Scheduled to take place from February 8 to February 16, 2025, the games will showcase the extraordinary determination and resilience of the participants from around the world. With an expanded range of winter sports added to the program, the upcoming games promise to be an incredible display of athletic prowess and inspirational stories of triumph over adversity.
Prince Harry's visit to Whistler not only brought attention to the Invictus Games but also provided a platform to honor the dedication and courage of service personnel and veterans. By highlighting the power of sports in promoting physical and emotional well-being, the prince continues to inspire and make a positive impact on the lives of those who have served their countries.
