Pūtahi Hauora
Defence Health HubInvictus Games
The Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick service members, both serving and veterans.
Invictus Games in NZDF
The Games use the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect of all those who serve their country. 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.
HRH The Duke of Sussex was driven to bring the event to an international audience following his inspirational visit to the Warrior Games in Colorado in 2013. He saw how the power of sport could help ‘wounded warriors’ physically, psychologically and socially. Those involved, or wanting to be involved, recognise the benefit of shining a spotlight on those men and women who served their country and now face a long recovery journey, and in many cases, a change of career and life. The power of sport, and the focus these games provide, provides competitors the ability to reconnect with family and friends, to employment, to fitness, both physical or mental, and it also gives them a renewed opportunity to represent their country once more.
The next Invictus Games will be held in The Hague in Spring 2022 (subject to COVID-19 restrictions).
"I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul." This is the cry of the Invictus Games; undefeated despite the challenges life throws at you. The NZ Defence Force have created this Haka as their battle cry for the Invictus Games.
Useful resources
If you are wanting to find out more information about Adaptive Sports in NZDF and selection for the next Invictus Games check out the following resources and links:
NZDF Invictus Team Facebook page