Feature Friday- Invictus Games

Last week the London was the home of the Invictus Games, which was the inaugural event created by Prince Harry after an inspirational trip to the states last year.  It was supported by some fantastic companies and people such as the Royal Foundation, Ministry of Defence, and Jaguar! The story behind the games is best used straight from the website: 

"The word ‘Invictus’ means ‘unconquered’. It embodies the fighting spirit of the wounded, injured and sick service personnel and what these tenacious men and women can achieve, post injury. The Invictus Games will celebrate this through sporting achievement that recognises the journey to recovery these men and women are on." -InvictusGames.org

The games were hosted in the Olympic Park over four days from the 10-14 September with over 400 participants that originated from 13 different countries.  These men and women are veterans or still serving their countries and came to London to compete in 9 different sporting events that were adapted for their injuries.  The sports varied form athletics, rugby, volleyball, swimming and more. 

Unlike many other international competitive sporting events, there was no nation medal table because this event is to celebrate the heroes of our Armed Forces, not to create an overall international winner.  Each winner and runner-up received a medal for the event they competed in and individual biographies are available for those interested, but it was not the main objective of the challenging events. 

The games are broadcast live on the BBC so the general public can be a part of the memorable games.  Tickets for next years event will go on sale 16 May 2015. If you're visiting the UK, live locally or want to watch over the internet the events are entertaining, inspirational and impressive to see what these service men and women can ask of their bodies and perform!