NSW to bid for 2018 Invictus Games

The NSW Government has launched an historic bid to host the 2018 Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, for wounded, injured or ill military personnel.

The Invictus Games would bring more than 500 service personnel from 16 nations to compete over eight days in 11 sports such as swimming, wheelchair rugby and sailing in Sydney.

Prince Harry, Patron of the Invictus Games Foundation, created the Invictus Games after a trip to the Warrior Games in the United States in 2013 where he saw the physical, psychological and social benefits of sport for wounded, injured or ill service personnel.

Minister for Veterans Affairs David Elliott said Sydney’s world-class venues and passion for sport was highlighted during the 2000 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and hosting the Invictus Games in 2018 would be a fitting finale to the Centenary of Anzac commemorations.

“The Invictus Games is a celebration of survival, rehabilitation and recovery. It showcases the healing power of sport in recovery from physical and mental wounds and has already assisted hundreds of competitors overcome their obstacles,” Mr Elliott said.

“I’m a passionate advocate for veterans and I can’t think of a better city in which to honour these inspiring athletes and their families who are turning adversity into opportunity.”

Deputy Premier Troy Grant said regional NSW makes a major contribution to the armed forces and the legacy of the Invictus Games would be a program that supports our veterans by using sport as a vehicle for rehabilitation.

“The Invictus Games will shine a light on the spirit that defines those who are willing to serve, and their loved ones, and there are so many examples of this courage and commitment right across our regions,’’ Mr Grant said. “This will be an opportunity for people from across our state to share in this celebration of triumph over adversity.’’

NSW will compete against Queensland to host the Invictus Games and the successful city will announced later this year.

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