Prince Harry Kicks Off Third Invictus Games in Toronto

The third edition of the Invictus Games, a sporting event for wounded military personnel and veterans spearheaded by Prince Harry, was officially opened on Saturday evening at Toronto’s Air Canada Centre.

After cheering on the 550 athletes from the 17 countries competing in the Games as they entered the stadium, Prince Harry took to the stage to welcome the competitors, spectators and open the event.

“In a world where so many have reasons to feel cyncial and apathetic, I wanted to find a way for veterans to be a beacon of light and show that us all that we have a role to play — that we all win when we respect our friends, neighbours and communities.

“That’s why we created Invictus — not only to help veterans recover from their physical and mental wounds, but also to inspire people to follow their example of resilience, optimism and service in their own lives,” Prince Harry said, before wishing all competitors well over the coming days.

Amongst the stadium crowd was the Prince’s girlfriend, actress Meghan Markle, making her first appearance at one of Prince Harry’s official engagements (she has previously joined him at polo, and was by his side at Pippa Middleton’s May wedding).

Earlier on Saturday, Prince Harry had audiences with outgoing Canadian Governor-General David Johnston, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Melania Trump, the First Lady of the United States.

Filed under The United Kingdom
Tagged Canada, Governor-General Johnston of Canada, Invictus Games, Meghan Markle, Melania Trump, Military, Patronage, Prime Minister Trudeau of Canada, Prince Harry of Wales, Sport, Veterans.

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