WHISTLER – Ahead of the upcoming Invictus Games scheduled for Vancouver and Whistler in 2025, Canadian broadcast veteran Scott Moore, CEO of the event, eagerly anticipated the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, known for their staunch support of the Games.
“They’re huge supporters of the Invictus Games,” Moore stated, highlighting the royal couple’s significant involvement. “I did make sure to ask how I should be addressing them when they get here, and I was told the simple sir and ma’am is fine.”
Prince Harry and Meghan are currently in British Columbia this week for the participating nations camp, where athletes and coaches from 19 countries will gather for sports lessons, including the new winter sports added to the 2025 Games such as alpine skiing, snowboarding, skeleton, biathlon, and wheelchair curling.
Moore emphasized that while the Invictus Games involve sports, they represent more than just athletic competition. “This is sports as a transformative power,” he explained, underscoring the event’s focus on the participants’ experiences and personal growth.
Founded by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games provide a platform for wounded, injured, or sick service personnel and veterans to showcase their resilience and determination.
Next year’s event in British Columbia will feature up to 550 competitors from over two dozen nations, participating in various sports including indoor rowing, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball, and wheelchair rugby.
Retired naval lieutenant Stephen La Salle, selected to represent Team Canada at the Games, expressed his hope to connect with fellow injured veterans on a similar journey of recovery. La Salle highlighted the importance of physical activity in dealing with the mental health challenges often faced by injured veterans.
The training camp this week aims to support participating nations in building year-round adaptive sports programs. Prince Harry and Meghan are expected to join participants in various events during the camp in Whistler and Vancouver.