The Invictus games are Paralympic styled games developed by Prince Harry. The competitors are wounded, injured, and sick military personnel and veterans alike. The first event took place in 2014 and has been a major success with five hundred and ninety contestants from eighteen different countries across the world.
An announcement came last year that the games will be held in Sydney, Australia October 2018. Selection trials have begun and there are eighty counted competitors competing for the forty spots available on the Australian team. The selectors are watching all hopefuls compete in a number of sports, including wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, swimming, archery, cycling, track & field and power lifting.
Spotted at tryouts was 2016 silver medallist for power lifting on the Australia team Darlene Brown. She is trying out for power lifting again along with basketball, shot put, discus, cycling, and rowing. She is a veteran from the Royal Australian Navy. She left the RAN when diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. She recalls being debilitated by her illness and says that the games have helped her move past it and become fearless.
Every athlete hopeful displays excitement and exuberance that have been built up since they found out the games would be hosted in Sydney. The beneficial outlet for wounded vets is a tremendous help for them healing. They feel like they are serving their country again and contributing in a favorable manner. The games give them a feel of purpose, and that is something that is priceless.
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