“It’s Game On, Down Under!” Prince Harry Launches 2018 Invictus Games in Sydney

Prince Harry jokingly threw down the gauntlet today as he launched the 2018 Invictus Games at Admiralty House in Sydney, telling the Australian team that “it’s game on, down under” as they prep for both this year’s games and the next.

In his speech, the Prince described the guilt he felt at being withdrawn from the front line in Afghanistan in February 2008 after his presence was revealed by an Australian magazine, before recalling it was the plane ride home that was part of his inspiration behind the Invictus Games.

“The sacrifices we ask our men and women to make came home to me in those moments. Sport is what would make the difference. Sport would make these guys and girls rebuild their lives. As Australians know better than anyone, sport has an unparalleled ability to bring people together,” he said before adding that the Australian public would “witness the very best of human courage, defiance and spirit” during the 2018 Games.

The Prince also paid tribute to the victims of Saturday’s London terror attack – two of whom were confirmed as being Australian earlier in the day: “Australians form an important and vibrant part of the fabric of life in London and we are reminded of that in good times and bad. And our hearts go out to the victims, their friends and families.”

After the launch, Harry – despite the pouring rain – went on a walkabout in Circular Quay, where he was reunited with 97-year-old war widow Daphne Dunn, whom he first met during his 2015 visit to Australia. He was quick to give Mrs Dunn a big hug, a huge smile of recognition on his face.

He also viewed a sailing display on Sydney Harbour, the sport has been added to the Invictus Games roster for the 2018 Games.

Filed under The United Kingdom
Tagged Australia, Invictus Games, Military, Patronage, Prince Harry of Wales, Sport, Working Visit.

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