Invictus Games 2014

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From ďŹ ring line to starting line, the wounded, injured and sick heroes of the Invictus Games have overcome unthinkable adversity. Now they are Ready. Ready to perform. Ready to compete. Ready to show the world what they can do. And we, are Ready to support them. #READY Show your support for Lance Corporal Derek Derenalagi and all the Invictus athletes now.

GET READY WITH US Visit the Jaguar Land Rover Experience area.

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THE POEM THAT INSPIRED THE NAME... Generations have drawn on the words of William Ernest Henley’s poem for strength during times of adversity. Henley was himself an amputee and the poem reflects his long battle with illness. The title means ‘unconquered’ and these 16 short lines encapsulate the indefatigable human spirit which is at the heart of the Invictus Games.

Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul. In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds, and shall find, me unafraid. It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll. I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul. William Ernest Henley

CONTENTS 4 A welcome from Prince Harry 5 Opening Ceremony 6 Invictus, the inspiration 8 The Organising Committee 9 Thanks to… THE TEAMS 10 United Kingdom 12 Australia & Afghanistan 14 Canada 15 Denmark 16 France 17 Italy 18 Netherlands 19 New Zealand 20 USA 22 Georgia, Estonia & Germany 24 The teams in training 28 Where and when to catch the action 30 Heroes’ stories 38 The Venues THE SPORTS 40 Athletics 41 Wheelchair Basketball 42 Wheelchair Rugby 43 Sitting Volleyball 44 Archery 45 Powerlifting 46 Swimming 48 Indoor Rowing 50 Road Cycling 51 JLR Driving Challenge 52 Closing Ceremony

Photo: Press Association Images

INVICTUS

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WELCOME The Invictus Games is the first of its kind, an international sporting event for wounded, injured or sick Servicemen and women. I am delighted to welcome all the competitors to London for this unique event. For many of those competing over the next four days, just getting to the start line has been an almighty challenge. Their stories move, humble and inspire me; I have no doubt they will do the same for you. The idea for the Invictus Games came from a visit I made to Colorado Springs, USA, in May 2013 to watch the Warrior Games – a domestic competition for wounded members of the US Armed Forces which Servicemen and women from the United Kingdom had been invited to attend. I was inspired to see Servicemen and women, who had trained and fought shoulder to shoulder, come together and compete as equals in a games that recognised the sacrifices they had made. The focus was on what these tenacious men and women could achieve post-injury. It focused on their talent and ability, and celebrated their fighting spirit through sporting achievement. The camaraderie and humour was contagious; the guys were a team again! I knew then that we had to bring the Games to the United Kingdom, to promote the concept to as wide an audience, in as many different nations, as possible. As a member of the Armed Forces I have served on two operational tours of Afghanistan and witnessed the whole cycle of injury: from arriving in Afghanistan with butterflies in my stomach; medevac’ing people after an IED strike; seeing them taken to hospital at Camp Bastion; flying home with them back to Birmingham; meeting them in Selly Oak and Headley Court; and finally trying to keep up with a double amputee and blind American veteran on our way to the South Pole. Although I will never be able to truly comprehend what these men and women, or their loved ones, have been through, I have come to understand the power sport can play in recovering from a life-changing injury. The word ‘Invictus’ means ‘unconquered’; for that is what they are. They don’t want pity, they simply want to be treated the same way they were before injury. I know the unconquerable spirit of these men and women you will see competing over the coming days will inspire you, as it does me, and many more who are on their own journey of recovery. One thing is certain: they simply don’t know how to give anything less than 100%. It’s who they are. For you and me, the Invictus Games are a chance to recognise their service but also to focus on what they can achieve post-injury. They see it as a chance to thank you for your support. Thank you for joining us for four days of inspirational sport. Welcome to the Invictus Games.

Prince Harry

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OPE N I NG C E R E MON Y

What better way to kick off four days of inspirational sport than with an Opening Ceremony worthy of the men and women competing? The curtain raiser for the Invictus Games, presented by Jaguar Land Rover, on Wednesday 10 September on the South Park Lawns of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park will be attended by up to 8,000 people, including competitors, their friends and families, distinguished guests and members of the general public. As well as the traditional parade of competitors, featuring all those competing

from the 13 participating nations, the Opening Ceremony will be a feast of sights and sounds – a fly past by the Red Arrows, a display by the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, as well as performances by bands from the Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force and an exclusive performance of the official Invictus Games anthem, written by Chris Martin from Coldplay. “We hope the public will be there to give us their support,” says Great Britain competitor JJ Chalmers. “It promises to be quite a show and will set the tone for what’s to come.” INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 5

Photo: Crown copyright 2014

LET THE GAMES BEGIN


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S U PP OR T WO U N D E D F O R O U R IN T H E U K The Ministry

of Defence, in partnership with Help For Heroes and Th e Royal Britis Legion, have es h tablished the Defence Reco Capability (DRC very ) wh ich se eks to deliver co-ordinated and long-term support for th are wounded, ose who injured or beco me sick whils military service t in . The DRC prov ide s command and care for th ose with comple x needs and prepares them either for a return to military duty or a supporte d transition to civ ilian life.

As the expression of strength and spirit in the face of adversity, the Invictus Games aims to send a positive message about life beyond disability. Here is the story behind the games... Invictus means unconquered. The word reflects the inner strength it takes to overcome physical injury, psychological trauma, and despair. The Invictus Games celebrates the fighting spirit of wounded, injured and sick service personnel. It celebrates what these tenacious men and women have achieved – and provides a moment of support – in their long and hard road to recovery. The idea for the Invictus Games came in 2013 when Prince Harry attended the US Warrior Games in Colorado. His visit inspired him to launch an international version of the games in the UK, bringing together for the first time servicemen and women – serving and veteran – from 13 nations. The games’ vision is to use the power of sport to inspire recovery and support rehabilitation on an international scale. Sport can change the lives of those who play and compete. It has been a mechanism used by many organisations to help wounded, injured and sick service personnel recover. It is well known not only to support physical

rehabilitation but also to rebuild psychological wellbeing, confidence and a sense of belonging. The Invictus Games are about sport and its power to inspire recovery. But sport is a means to an end, and as such the games are about much more. The competitors have all served their country, and have been wounded, injured or become sick in the course of that service. They represent a broader community who come face-to-face with the reality of their injuries every day. And there is a wider, and sometimes greater, impact on loved ones. Each one of these individuals’ journey of recovery is not just one of treating physical and psychological trauma – it is one of rediscovering selfconfidence, redefining ambitions, rebuilding a career, and restoring family life. It is their tireless drive to overcome adversity that the Invictus Games seeks to foster and highlight through sport. Every day, they are tested and challenged, but they are unafraid. They are unbowed. They are Invictus.

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ORGANISING COMMITTEE PRINCE HARRY Prince Harry was inspired to bring the Invictus Games to London after visiting the US Warrior Games in 2013. The Prince sees the Games as an important part of a broader legacy of support and wellbeing for men and women who have served their country.

SIR KEITH MILLS GBE Sir Keith Mills is the former deputy chairman of LOCOG, founder of Air Miles and former Chairman of the company which owns the Nectar programme. Sir Keith is Chairman of the Sported Foundation and a Trustee of the Royal Academy.

SARA DONALDSON OBE Sara Donaldson is the Strategy Director at Unspun and has overseen many of the UK’s highest-profile sporting campaigns and media launches. Sara headed up the Production Company that put on London 2012’s Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

LIEUTENANT-GENERAL ANDREW GREGORY CB Lieutenant-General Gregory is a British Army officer and Chief of Defence Personnel, having first joined the Army with the Royal Artillery in 1981. As a Brigadier, he served in Iraq. He represents Defence on the Invictus Games Board.

DEBBIE JEVANS CBE Debbie Jevans is the Chief Executive of England Rugby 2015. She was formerly Director of Sport for LOCOG. A former pro tennis player, Debbie is on the management board of the All England Lawn Tennis Club, and on the board of Sport England.

EDWARD LANE FOX Edward Lane Fox is a former captain in the Household Cavalry who served in Bosnia and Iraq. After leaving the Army he worked at a financial communications firm before joining the staff of the Royal Household in 2013, as Prince Harry’s private secretary.

TERRY MILLER OBE Terry Miller was general counsel for LOCOG, having spent 17 years at Goldman Sachs in London as a partner and international general counsel. She was awarded an OBE in the 2013 New Year’s Honours List for her services to the London 2012 Games.

GUY MONSON Guy Monson has been chief investment officer at Sarasin & Partners LLP since 1997 and a managing partner at the company since 2008. He is a trustee of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry.

ROGER MOSEY Roger Mosey was the BBC’s Director of London 2012 Olympic Games coverage and former BBC editorial director. He is now Master of Selwyn College, Cambridge, having attended Oxford, which he represented in the 1978 series of University Challenge.

GENERAL SIR NICHOLAS PARKER KCB CBE General Sir Nick Parker is a former British Army officer who served as Commander Land Forces (formerly Commander-in-Chief, Land Forces). He was also charged with organising the military support during London 2012.

MARY REILLY Mary Reilly is a chartered accountant and former Partner at Deloitte LLP. She was previously Chair of the London Development Agency and was also on the Board of LOCOG.

CHRIS TOWNSEND OBE Chris Townsend was the Commercial Director for LOCOG, where he was responsible for raising £2.4 billion of commerical revenue (including sponsorship, licensing and ticketing). He is now Chief Executive of BDUK, the Government’s rural broadband project.

EDITOR Nick Judd DESIGNERS Sharon O’Connor, Graham Greig SUB EDITORS William Hughes, Louis Massarella PICTURE EDITOR Dominique Campbell PUBLISHED BY Haymarket Network ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Ben Rosser DIRECTOR Cormac Bourne SENIOR PRODUCTION CONTROLLER Jade Pickard PRODUCTION MANAGER Trevor Simpson GROUP ART DIRECTOR Martin Tullett EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Simon Kanter MANAGING DIRECTOR Andrew Taplin CHAIRMAN Kevin Costello REPRO Haymarket Prepress PRINTED BY William Gibbons & Sons Ltd, Willenhall, West Midlands. PUBLISHED on behalf of Invictus Games by Haymarket Network. No part of this programme may be reproduced without the prior permission of Invictus Games. Due care has been taken to ensure that the content of this programme is fully accurate, but the publisher and Invictus Games cannot except liability for any errors and omissions. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily shared by the publisher or Invictus Games. All rights reserved. 8 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

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THANK YOU TO THOSE WHO HAVE HELPED FOUNDING PARTNERS

WITH THANKS TO

Thank you to the Mayor of London, DCMS and Sport England for all their help in making the Invictus Games possible

Thank you to the London Legacy Development Corporation, Lee Valley Athletics Centre and Here East for providing the venues

Thank you to Garrard for supplying the medals and participant medallions

Thank you to Catlin for providing the insurance protection

Thank you to Transport for London for providing friends and family with pre-paid oyster cards

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THANK YOU

UNITED KINGDOM British troops played a key role in the 2001 deployment to Afghanistan and joined the United States in the 2003 deployment to Iraq. The British military also enforced a UN-mandated no-fly zone over Libya. There are more than 200,000 active personnel in the British military and about 180,000 reservists. The country is close allies with the US and European nations and has the second largest military in the EU.

to Help For Heroes for assisting with the selection, training and management of the British Armed Forces team.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Dave Henson, 30, athletics & sitting volleyball Tell us about your military background… I’m a retired Army Captain from the Royal Engineers. I served as a Troop Commander in 22 Engineer Regiment, deploying to Afghanistan in October 2010 on detachment to the Counter IED Task Force. I stood on an IED in 2011, resulting in the loss of both legs. I was discharged from the military in March this year. What role did sport play in your recovery? It played a huge part. It gave me a focus and time to reflect and forget about my injuries. The first sport I tried post-injury was swimming and smashing out the lengths was a perfect escape. I took up sitting volleyball, carried on swimming, then started running on carbon fibre blades exactly ten months after I lost my legs. I competed at the 2012 Warrior Games in swimming and sitting volleyball and also in athletics in 2013.

“Sport gave me time to forget about my injuries, playing a huge part in my recovery”

How important are the Invictus Games? The public have been incredible with their support of the injured service men and women over the last decade or so, and we as soldiers, sailors or airmen really appreciate that. But what we want to raise awareness of is the fact that these injuries are for life. The guys and girls are going to need support for a long time to come, be that in finding suitable employment, assistance with housing requirements, or simply because sports equipment for ‘disabled’ athletes is incredibly expensive. We want the public to see that these incredible individuals, who have given so much for their country, haven’t given up – please don’t give up on them! For the team and me, these games are a real opportunity to show publicly our spirit, determination and refusal to be broken. It is also an opportunity to thank the public for their incredible support, without which our recovery wouldn’t be possible, through a celebration in the form of some high-level, competitive sport.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Paul ‘Vicey’ Vice, 31, sitting volleyball & cycling Corporal Vice was critically injured whilst on foot patrol in Afghanistan, when a blast severed his carotid artery, causing brain damage and loss of use in his right hand and left foot. Once he had completed his rehabilitation, he was introduced to disability sports through Help For Heroes’ Adaptive Sports Programme. “I discovered shooting, and I now compete for the Great Britain team. I hope with hard work and effort that I will be able to represent GB at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio.” 10 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

Luke ‘Darlo’ Darlington, 25, cycling & swimming During a tour of Afghanistan with the Royal Marines in 2011, ‘Darlo’ suffered a penetrating brain injury caused by a piece of shrapnel lodged in his brain. He was in a coma for four weeks and his injuries have left him with partial right-side paralysis and 25% less brain capacity. In 2013, he travelled to the US to represent Great Britain in the Warrior Games. “Although initially I found my injuries very hard to cope with, I have now found a new lease of life. Sport helped me both physically and psychologically.”


Don Maclean, 36, cycling Don stood on an improvised explosive device whilst on patrol with the Royal Marines in Afghanistan in April 2011, shattering his heal and breaking bones in his right foot and ankle. He cycled in the Race Across America in 2012, raising money for Help For Heroes. “I consider myself lucky compared to so many others with much more serious injuries. Cycling has been a key part of my recovery both on and off the bike and I’m looking forward to this continuing at the Invictus Games.”

Andy Grant, 25, athletics After being hit by two improvised explosive devices while on tour in Afghanistan in 2009 with the Royal Marines, Andy had his right leg amputated in 2010. “It was a life-changing decision, but I rebuilt my confidence by taking part in adaptive sports.”

John James ‘JJ’ Chalmers, 26, athletics & cycling ‘JJ’ was with the Marines in Afghanistan in 2011 when an improvised explosive device explosion caused the loss of his fingers and other injuries. “The road to recovery doesn’t go straight, but when you get over a set-back you find yourself further forward than ever before.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 30 / Cycling 29 / Archery 30 Powerlifting 4 / Indoor Rowing 8 / Swimming 19 / SV / WCR / WCB Driving Challenge

Craig Gadd, 41, sitting volleyball & cycling Craig lost his left leg after stepping on an improvised explosive device on his second tour of Afghanistan in 2010. A passionate skier, Sergeant Gadd was back on the slopes just four months after sustaining his injuries and now has his sights set on the 2018 Paralympics. “I feel very lucky that my injuries are very insignificant compared to my fellow injured colleagues, but they are lifechanging nevertheless. Thanks to Help For Heroes, I’ve managed to get back into all kinds of sport.” INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 11


AUSTRALIA The Australian Defence Force has nearly 60,000 active personnel and a further 40,000 active and standby reserve forces. While small, it remains the largest military in Oceania. Australian troops have fought alongside Great Britain for decades and were part of the original coalition of nations to send troops to Iraq in 2003. The Australian military also fought in Afghanistan.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Curtis McGrath, 26, swimming & indoor rowing Tell about your military background… I was born in New Zealand, where I lived until 1998, when I moved to Western Australia. I dreamt of being a fighter pilot, but I enjoyed sport more than school and so didn’t get the marks to do so. I became a Combat Engineer (a ‘Sapper’), enlisting in the Australian Army in 2006. After completing three months of jungle warfare training in Indonesia in 2008, I was deployed to East Timor, then back to Indonesia to help rebuild infastructure after an earthquake. Then, when I was on leave in 2011, I was asked if I wanted to go to Afghanistan. What was you role there? I was selected to do an advanced first aid course and become the unofficial medic for my section, as well as my combat engineer’s job, which was to search the route so that friendly forces could move

about without the fear of stepping or driving on an improvised explosive device. How did you sustain your injuries? Three months into our tour in 2012, there was a big clearance in a far north area of Uruzgan. On the final day of the five-day mission, I stepped on an improvised explosive device and had both my legs blown off. I was flown to Germany

where I was operated on every 36 hours for the next eight days. In Brisbane, I had four more surgeries to close up all my wounds and to start my rehab. It was very hard and emotional and at times I wanted to give up, but after two months and two weeks I was discharged and off to get my prosthetic legs. I then had intensive rehab, which involved learning to swim again.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Geoffrey Evans (Team Vice Captain), 37, swimming Former Army Commando and fire fighter, Geoffrey retired as a Lieutenant after sustaining an injury on his second deployment to Afghanistan in 2010, when an improvised explosive device went off. He suffered a traumatic brain injury, a spinal injury and suffers from post traumatic stress disorder. “I believe that sport provides a pathway to improving the mental health of injured veterans.” 12 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

Danielle Parry, 36, cycling, swimming & WCB A Tasmanian and former transport driver and postal clerk with 12 years service, She served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where she sustained back, knee and neck injuries. “I never thought I would be able to compete in something like this and since being selected in the team, I have had a different mindset. I have something to aim for and achieve and show that I can continue without giving up.”

Dennis Ramsay, 50, WCR, WCB, sitting volleyball & athletics

Mark Urquhart, 46, swimming, athletics, WCB & WCR

Dennis was a field engineer for the Australian Army, serving in East Timor (twice), Iraq and Afghanistan before being discharged.

A former Infantryman and Paratrooper, Mark was injured in two parachute accidents, leading to depression and post traumatic stress disorder.

“I’m honoured and excited to be part of the Australian team. Focusing on the Invictus Games has motivated me to get out of the house. I hope to win a medal.”

“Focusing on sport stops me from being angry and depressed and tires me out so I sleep well at night – most nights without the dreams of my accidents.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 22 / Archery 15 / Cycling 12 / Indoor Rowing 10 / Powerlifting 2 / Swimming 19 / SV / WCR / WCB / Driving Challenge


AFGHANISTAN And you were soon playing sport competitively again… I was selected to compete in the Marine Trial (Warrior) Games in the US, won three swimming gold medals and competed in the archery. This was such a great thing for me to participate in because it gave me that competitive edge that I thought I had lost after being wounded. How important are the Invictus Games? I am honoured to be Australia’s captain. I continue to face struggles on a daily basis but I would not have come this far if I had given up in the hospital room. We all need the exposure to challenges in life because this is how we learn to overcome adversity and rise to the occasion. Due to my injuries I have had some amazing opportunities and the Invictus Games is one of them. These games are an excellent platform from which we can raise awareness to the global community about the struggles that our wounded men and women face when returning from war.

“After I lost my legs, rehab was hard and emotional and at times I wanted to give up, but I learnt to swim again”

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Major Haji Ahmad Shar Tell us a bit about your military background… I’m an infantry officer in the Afghan National Army. I’ve commanded at all levels from Blook (Platoon) to Kandak (Battalion). I was injured in the line of duty in 1986. Tell us how you and the rest of the team feel about participating in the Invictus Games? For me it is an honour to captain this first Afghan team to attend the Invictus Games. I and many of the team have had a lifelong wish to visit London, which will come true through Invictus. I am looking forward to meeting other wounded warriors and organisations who help, and I am hoping that our participation will bring a positive benefit to my country.

Kirsty-Lee Brown, 30, swimming, athletics, WCB & WCR

Tony Benfer, 51, swimming, cycling, WCB & indoor rowing

‘Bomber’ joined the Navy when she was 18. In 2009, she helped rescue 56 people from an illegal entry vessel off the coast of Australia, was deployed to the Gulf in 2011, and involved in Search and Rescue off the coast of Indonesia in 2102. Kirsty-Lee has suffered from a painful condition called fibromyalgia as well as post traumatic stress disorder.

Flight Sergeant Benfer was an infantryman in the Australian Army for seven years before joining the Air Force in 1991 as a Physical Training Instructor. In 2007, he was on the wrong end of a hit and run, leading to a below-knee amputation.

“The Invictus Games experience will help push me out of my comfort zone and hopefully be a positive experience for my physical and mental health.”

Following the US-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001, the NATO military alliance has helped to rebuild the Afghan Armed Forces to combat a Taliban resurgence. Afghanistan is a landlocked country so the military consists of an Army and Air Force only, with more than 200,000 active soldiers. “We have fought alongside nearly all the nations taking part in the Invictus Games,” says Colonel Mohammad Ashraf, head of the Afghan delegation for the games. “We strongly believe we are fighting together for peace.”

“It would be a highlight to meet Prince Harry, but just being a part the Australian team at the Invictus Games is very special. Sport has played a large part in my rehabilitation. Through sport I have been able to strive to do better in sport, family and life. If I can do it, anyone can.”

“I am hoping our participation in the Invictus Games will bring a positive benefit to my country” EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 2

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CANADA Canadian forces were an ally to Great Britain during the First and Second World Wars and have been committed to multilateral military action since. Canadian troops were part of the war in Afghanistan and contributed to the rebuilding of Iraq after the 2003 invasion by US-led coalition. There are around 68,000 Regular Force and 51,000 Reserve Force personnel across the Army, Navy and Air Force.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN James MacIntyre, 37, athletics, swimming & cycling

where I marched 160km over four days, as part of the first-ever Canadian Forces team of ill and injured personnel. Over the past two years, I have struggled with pain and fatigue, but I’ve had outstanding help along the way. If it wasn’t for the support of all the people around me, I wouldn’t have been able to reach my goals.

Tell us a bit about your military background… I enrolled in the Canadian Army in 1996 and am currently serving as a Sergeant with the Joint Personnel Support Unit. I have twice been deployed to Bosnia and once to Afghanistan before my second tour of Afghanistan in 2010. How did you sustain your injury? An improvised explosive device detonated at a vehicle checkpoint we were passing through, and I was seriously injured. My right leg had to be amputated, and I faced a long road to recovery. Despite the challenges ahead, I was determined not to let my injury hold me back. I wanted to prove to myself that I could still do anything I was able to do before. How big a role did sport play in this goal? One of my first goals was to be able to

run again. With time and a lot of hard work, my mobility improved, and I began to get faster. Six months after my injury, I was thrilled to be able to start running again. Since my injury, I have run five half marathons, competed in a minitriathlon, and completed an obstacle adventure race. I also had the honour of participating in the Nijmegen Marches,

What do the Invictus Games mean to you? The Invictus Games are pushing me to train hard and be able to compete on an equal footing with other members of the international military community. Events like this, that introduce or reintroduce ill and injured soldiers to sport, inspire participants to train and compete. I feel honored to be in the company of soldiers who smash through their perceived limitations, inspiring us to do the same. My advice to other injured service people is: keep a positive attitude, stay motivated and use all the resources available to help you along the way.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Jeffrey Blair McLearn, 43, archery & indoor rowing Corporal Blair enrolled in the Army in 1999, he was deployed to Bosnia in 2003 and Afghanistan in 2010, where he spent 18 months. “After returning home I started to notice that things were not quite the same. Soldier On [a charity designed to empower ill or injured service personnel] showed me that I can still get out and do things that I used to do. The Invictus Games are going to be fun and maybe lead to new passions that I can pursue after returning home.”

Luc Martin, 31, archery & cycling Corporal Martin was serving in Afghanistan in 2007 when the vehicle he was driving was hit by an improvised explosive device, causing him internal injuries as well as traumatic brain injury. He retired in May of this year. “My goals for the Invictus Games are to meet many new lifetime friends and hopefully come home with a medal.”

James Miller, 39, athletics & swimming Corporal Miller suffered partial deafness, concussion and, subsequently, post traumatic stress disorder after a fellow soldier stepped on an improvised explosive device while on tour in Afghanistan in 2006. “When I heard about the Invictus Games I jumped at the opportunity to get back into track running, which is one of my tools in dealing with PTSD. This a chance to regain my competitive hunger.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 10 / Archery 6 / Cycling 3 / Powerlifting 1 / Indoor Rowing 5 / Swimming 5 14 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

Rick Rickard, 49, athletics Sergeant Rickard enrolled in the Canadian Air Force in 1985 and three years into his service was involved in a training accident which led to his left leg being amputated just above the knee. Canada’s longestserving amputee, Rick carried the Paralympic Torch at the 2010 Vancouver Games. “The Invictus Games is an opportunity of a lifetime for me. I hope to see old friends, make new ones and come home with lasting memories.”


DENMARK Danish soldiers have participated in UN missions since 1948, the year before Denmark became a NATO member. Danish forces have been engaged in UN and NATO missions; Denmark sent troops to Afghanistan in 2001 and has been part of the International Security Assistance Force since, working closely with the UK. Denmark employs approximately 20,000 service personnel.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Maurice Lindegaard Manuel, 37, wheelchair basketball How long have you been in the military? I began as a conscripted soldier in 2003 and became a sergeant in the Military Police in 2005. I’ve been deployed six times; my last tour was as an interpreter and cultural effects advisor having studied Pashto (one of two official languages spoken in Afghanistan) for two years. How did you sustain your injury? During a patrol in 2010 I stepped on an improvised explosive device and sustained severe trauma to my right foot and lower leg. I subsequently lost my lower leg as it was deemed the most suitable way for me to regain my mobility.

mountain biking, climbing and boat paddling) and played basketball. Since my injury, I’ve played wheelchair basketball.

What’s your sporting background? Before my injury I did Military Pentathlon (shooting, obstacle running, obstacle swimming, throwing and cross-country running), adventure racing (running,

And now the Invictus Games... It’s an experience and opportunity that comes around once in a lifetime, to be inspired. I’m a hugely competitive person and cannot say no to a challenge.

Why are the Invictus Games important? It is important for both the physically and the psychologically injured that there is awareness on the matter. It will be a model not only for wounded soldiers, but for people with disabilities in general. It will give people the desire to fight on. Only your own limitations lie between your handicap and your goals.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Christian S RIchardson, 28, athletics & cycling Christian lost both legs after being hit by an improvised explosive device while on foot patrol with the Danish Army in Afghanistan in 2009. As well as taking up hand cycling, he’s written a book and helped set up a teambuilding and motivational speaking company called Running With No Legs. “I have found a new joy with sport and the Invictus Games is a great platform for injured service personnel to find motivation in life.”

Marianne Hüche, 48, athletics & cycling A sergeant in the Army Home Guard, Marianne was left partially paralysed down her left side after a traffic accident in 1990. “The Invictus Games gives me the possibility to show what has been hidden inside the 137 kilogram heavy grease mountain, which I developed into after my accident. I saw that it was time to change my life and have since lost 87 kgs in a year.”

Jan Overgaard, 39, swimming, cycling & athletics After a tour to Kosovo in 2002, Lance Corporal Overgaard suffered from post traumatic stress disorder following a deployment to Iraq in 2003. “The Invictus Games means a lot to me. I even put my dog on vacation with my ex-wife in order to concentrate on training. I think it will be the craziest thing I get to experience in my life and I feel privileged to be part of the Danish team.”

Jens Syberg, 43 sitting volleyball & archery Having previously served in Croatia in 1995, Lance Corporal Syberg was injured on his third tour to Afghanistan in 2009, when he suffered a crushed disc, sprained hip, hearing loss and tinnitus after an improvised explosive device went off while he was on foot patrol. “It’s crucial countries do more for their wounded. Soldiers help ensure everyone else can live a normal life. I want to show that injured soldiers can operate just like other humans.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 14 / Archery 6 / Cycling 10 / Indoor Rowing 5 / Swimming 11 / SV / WCR / WCB / Driving Challenge INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 15


FRANCE France and Great Britain have a long history of military cooperation on matters of international security. In 2010 they signed two defence co-operation treaties which include joint training and the sharing of aircraft carriers. The French Armed Forces number more than 220,000. French troops were deployed to Afghanistan in 2001.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN David Travadon, 37, cycling, swimming & athletics

Soon after coming back, I also decided to compete at triathlon, finishing sixth in the 2012 World Championship. In the pool, I had to learn how to balance again without my right arm, which I was able to do with specific training. I now swim every week.

Tell us a bit about your military background and how you sustained your injuries? I was an engineer bomb disposal expert in the Army for 13 years. In November 2009, I was on a demining mission with the 13 Engineer Regiment at the frontier between Lebanon and Israel, when a mine exploded. I lost my right arm and an eye. I owe my life to my comrades. What was the road to recovery like? I knew right away that my salvation would come through sport. I’m from Brittany, so I’m stubborn and I like competition. I always want to give my best. In my hospital room, I wrote a maxim: ‘Pain will not last, abandonment is irrevocable’. After six months in hospital near Paris, and a dozen surgeries which allowed me to recover from blindness, I came home. A day later, I was out on the track again.

In September 2010, I returned to my regiment as a trainer of managers. And soon you were racing competitively… My favourite sport was duathlon – a combination of running and cycling, both of which I excel at. I won the silver medal in the 2012 Para World Championship and gold at the 2013 European Championship.

Does this mean we’ll be seeing you at Rio 2016, with Triathlon on the Paralympic programme for the first time? I will be 38 years old, the competition will be tough, but today every door is open to me. I feel completely supported by the Army, who allow me the necessary hours to train. And tell us about your work with Terre Fraternité, an organisation that works with injured military personnel… I’ve taken on the role of ‘big brother’ for young, injured comrades. I give them advice about how to deal with their new life. I was so well surrounded when I was recovering that it feels normal to help.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Alain Akakpo, 29, athletics Alain suffered a major trauma to his right arm in 2004 and had the limb amputated. He competed in the long jump at the London 2012 Paralympics. “It is awesome to be taking part in the Invictus Games, the first inter-forces competition at this level. I’m here to win, share my high-level sports experience with other athletes and wear my country’s colours with pride. It is also about giving military values through sport, the public need to know more about wounded military personnel.”

Cecile Trompette, 29, swimming Corporal Trompette wounded her right arm when an improvised explosive device went off while she was on a tour of Afghanistan in 2010-11. She won two gold medals and a bronze at this year’s Warrior Games. “The Invictus Games is a great competition and an important event as it will give us the chance to meet and compete with other wounded service personnel.”

Franck Robin, 36, cycling Franck suffered a gunshot wound whilst working for the Gendarmerie (French Military Police). “The Invictus Games is a wonderful event and it will raise public awareness of the role the armed forces play. The message I have for everybody is this: ‘When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have a thousand reasons to rejoice’.”

Thomas Brun, 27, athletics Thomas had his leg amputated while in action. “I hope the Invictus Games show the public that sport is for everybody. Events such as the Invictus Games are important in reintegrating our wounded into everyday life. After competing in the Marine Corps Trials (aka The Warrior Games) for the past two years – winning a gold medal, two silvers and and a bronze in field events – I’m hoping for an outstanding performance and good results, as well as seeing some of my comrades again.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Archery 13 / Athletics 13 / Cycling 4 / Indoor Rowing 6 / Powerlifting 1 / Swimming 9/ SV / WCB / WCR 16 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014


ITALY A founding nation of NATO and the EU, Italy is engaged in NATO transformation processes and many of the European Defence initiatives. In order to protect national security, Italian Armed Forces have deployed to many international assistance operations. The Italian military is currently leading UN troops in Lebanon, NATO in Kosovo, EUTM in Somalia and the Naval Force EU Atlanta.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Gianfranco Paglia, 44, swimming, rowing, powerlifting & wheelchair rugby Tell us about your military background… I joined the paratroopers after deciding not to pursue my pilot’s training. My first tour abroad was in 1993 in Somalia, where on July 2 we had three men missing in action and 22 wounded – I was among those 22. I lost the use of both legs. Since then, the General staff have not only kept me on duty, but have given me the chance to take part in deployments to Bosnia, Lebanon, Iraq and Kosovo to name but a few. It’s been great to be able to serve without staying behind a desk. How have Italy’s preparations gone? Each one of us has been very focused on our training and have been supported

by the Italian Paralympic Committee. Even though we started specific training too late in the game, I consider that each one of us has already won a major battle, because we are still alive. Probably the best medal we could all get is the chance for us to get back on active duty. And what are your aims for the Games? To serve Italy at our best. London is a challenge, we all know: you can win or lose. The importance lies in being able to fight for something and I reckon we are all extremely good at this. This is only the beginning but I’m sure we’ll perform and score well.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Alessandro Albamonte, 44, Rowing A colonel in the paratroopers, Alessandro has suffered visual sensory disabilities since a terrorist attack in Italy. Roberto Punzo, 50, Archery & WCB A victim of a terrorist attack in Lebanon in 2006, the Army Lieutenant now serves within the Office of the Chief of Staff. Domenico Russo, 36, athletics & rowing Corporal Russo will compete in the 100m only a year after taking up running. He serves at the Army Aviation Training Centre.

Moreno Marchetti, 36, Athletics & WCR Corporal Marchetti lost both legs in the line of duty, but became national champion in shot put and javelin just a few months after taking up the sports. Monica Contrafatto, 33, Swimming & WCB The only female team member is fiercely competitive. Corporal Contrafatto lost a leg in a terrorist attack in Afghanistan. She now serves in the Army General Staff. EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 5 / Archery 4 / Cycling 3 / Powerlifting 2 / Indoor Rowing 8 / Swimming 7 / WCR / WCB / Driving Challenge INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 17


NETHERLANDS The Dutch have worked alongside Great Britain and other nations during operations in Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan. The Netherlands deployed troops and aircraft to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom where they took part in combat operations alongside British and Canadian forces. The Dutch Armed Forces have approximately 50,000 active personnel.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Rahmon Zondervan, 27, swimming & sitting volleyball Tell us about your military background I enlisted in the army in 2005, straight from high school, and was deployed in Uruzgan province, Afghanistan, in March 2007. Three months into our deployment I was wounded by a suicide-controlled improvised explosive device, suffering injuries to my arms, legs, hearing and worst of all, my face and skin. I lost my right eye and had more than 220 stitches all over my body. What role did sport play in your recovery? The accident happened on July 10, 2007; I was back running again by August 20. It’s what I loved to do. After some difficult conversations at the hospital and during my reintegration in the army, it was a relief to be able to run around my home town, which is a beautiful peninsula in Holland. Before I got injured I loved doing team sports; now I prefer individual sports because it helps get my mind off things.

What do you hope to get out of the Invictus Games? For me personally it means setting new goals – finishing as high as possible at the Invictus Games. After the Games I’ve set a goal to compete in endurance sports. I’ve already competed in running events a couple of times, but I want to stretch it out and train for triathlons.

And what do you hope other athletes will take away from the Games? I hope all the competitors keep participating in sports, it doesn’t matter which one. Everybody can set individual goals or goals within a team. It’s important to let people know you’re still in the game, no matter what happened to you or what injuries you suffered.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Rik Vonk, 27, swimming Sergeant Vonk had returned safely from Afghanistan in 2011, when he was involved in a road accident involving the military truck he was travelling on, leading to the loss of his lower leg. “It meant I couldn’t take up my new position as group commander in the Airborne Brigade. It was difficult to find a sport that was suitable for me after my accident, but swimming was a revelation; it’s now my number one focus. I can finish in the top three. ”

Edwin Vermetten, 40, indoor rowing & WCV

Toninho Norden, 26, powerlifting, WCB & athletics

Sebastiaan van Nieuwenhuizen, 37, cycling

Corporal Vermetten had his foot and ankle reconstructed after a road accident in 2001.

Corporal Norden lost both legs after a roadside bomb incident in Afghanistan in 2008.

“After eight years of surgeries, I feel useful to my country again! Rowing is my passion and I’m going for gold!”

“Before my injuries, my best bench press was 80kg; now my personal best is 146kg – and I’m aiming for 150kg in London.”

A retired Corporal, Sebastiaan lost a lower leg and suffered severe burns and spinal injuries when he came into contact with electricity cables while preparing a tank for transportation in 1997. “I couldn’t face going back to work at the Ministry of Defence at the time, but I’ve been a regular at the Military Rehabilitation Centre, and it’s great that I can now compete for the Netherlands in the Invictus Games. It promises to be a massive spectacle.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 13 / Archery 5 / Cycling 6 / Powerlifting 3 / Indoor Rowing 1 / Swimming 7 / SV / Driving Challenge 18 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014


NEW ZEALAND New Zealand’s military has fought alongside British military personnel for decades and is also involved in peacekeeping and observer missions, employing nearly 14,000 people. This includes 8,000 Regular Force, 2,200 Reserve Force, and 2,000 civil staff members across the Navy, Army and Air Force. Troops were sent to Afghanistan in 2001 and took part in operations to rebuild Iraq after the 2003 US-led invasion.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Dave Sherriff, 45, wheelchair basketball Tell us about your military background? I enlisted in the Air Force in 1987 as a safety and surface technician, employed to maintain parachutes, life rafts and other aircraft life-support equipment. How did you sustain your injuries? I was involved in a motorcycle accident in 1993, suffering a spinal cord injury that left me a paraplegic. When I returned to work, I retrained to become a technical writer. I was promoted to corporal in 1995 before retraining again to became an aeronautical engineering draftsman in 1998. I was promoted to the supervisor’s position, becoming a sergeant in 2000. I held this rank until 2007, when my 20 years’ service was completed. What’s your sporting background? Before my injury, water polo was what I really excelled at, competing at national

level for the NZ Combined Services team just before my injury. While an inpatient at the Auckland Spinal Unit, I was introduced to wheelchair basketball, and it became a significant part of my life. Between 1997 and 2005, I represented New Zealand, coached the country’s U20 team and became a qualified referee in 2011.

How key was sport in your recovery? After my accident I’ve been fortunate in ways that many people with my disability have not been. Firstly, I had the support of the Air Force to continue in my career. Secondly, sport has given me opportunities and life experiences that are lost to many people with a serious spinal cord injury.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Connor McLellan, 26, sitting volleyball, WCR, WCB & indoor rowing After he was injured during a training exercise while on tour in Afghanistan, Private McLellan – then a Rifleman in the Army – decided to “give something new a try”, becoming a Section Commander in the NZ Defence Force Youth Development Unit. “I chose the events I’m taking part in because I enjoy team sports and trying something new. The indoor rowing will be a good challenge. I am proud to have the chance to meet and compete with people that have sacrificed so much.”

Karl Shearsby, 42, archery, athletics, swimming & WCR Petty Officer Shearsby first enlisted with the New Zealand Army in 1992 as a Signalman. Following an injury, he joined the Royal NZ Navy, where he served until being released in 1998, re-enlisting in 2005. “In 2012 I was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. I want people to know that not all physical restrictions are visible. The struggle continues, but I’ll give my all as part of the Kiwi team.”

Kelly Whittle, 30, athletics Corporal Whittle has been a medic in the NZ Army since enlisting in 2002, injuring her hip and shoulder in 2012 while on duty in Afghanistan. “I have had several surgeries to address these injuries since returning to New Zealand. With my focus on field events at the Invictus Games I will compete with everything I have. Win or lose, I know I will have given my all.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 7 / Archery 5 Cycling 4 / Indoor Rowing 7 / Powerlifting 2 Swimming 7 / SV / WCR / WCB / Driving Challenge

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USA The United States Armed Forces has more than two million members. The US and Great Britain have continued their close alliance over the past decade through engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq. Together, their commitment to and promotion of adaptive sports opportunities encourage wounded, ill, and injured service members and veterans to lead more fulfilling, productive, and inspiring lives.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Chris Self, 47 cycling & athletics

How did this affect athletic participation? With the amputation and a prosthesis, I was told that I’d be able to participate in sports as though I was never injured. This was one of the determining factors in my decision. It also meant I could return to serving in the American Armed Forces.

Tell us about your military background? I joined the Army in 1986 as a Military Policeman, before spending 22 years in the Special Forces, serving five tours in Iraq and executing a mission in Afghanistan, retiring as a Sergeant Major in 2013. How did you sustain your injury? I was on my third deployment, in Northern Baghdad, when just three days after Christmas in 2005, I was shot in both legs, damaging a nerve in my right which resulted in loss of function. I subsequently wore a special brace designed to keep my foot in place. This prevented me from running, which was one of my passions, so I took up cycling, After much consultation with doctors, talking with military pioneers in amputations, I decided it was time to have the lower part of my leg and foot removed.

So did you? Yes. Following surgery and a period of adjustment to using a prosthetic leg, I returned to active duty and was deployed twice more to Iraq. I began sharing my experiences with other wounded, ill, and injured service members, reassuring them that their lives will be just as they were before, motivating and inspiring them to keep moving forward.

“I’m a firm believer that with a little creativity, you can continue to do what you did before”

And how is the sport going now? I became active in adaptive sports – winning multiple medals in triathlon at the US-held Warrior Games. I’m a firm believer that with a little creativity, you can continue to do what you did before.

MEET SOME OF THE TEAM Jacob ‘Doc’ Emmott, 25, archery, swimming & sitting volleyball After receiving a gunshot wound to the head while on duty in Afghanistan in 2010, Jacob retired from the Navy, where he worked as a Hospital Corpsman with the Marines. As well as suffering from migraines and chronic pain, he was hospitalised for post traumatic stress disorder. “The biggest thing this athletic event gives me is a reason to do better. I can sit at home right now, hopped up on painkillers or just all around feeling sorry for myself. Instead, I am going after an obtainable challenge.” 20 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

Paul Johnson, 38, archery, swimming, WCR & cycling Paul joined the US Coast Guard in the aftermath of 9/11 and, after an accident aboard one of his boats and various subsequent experiences, was diagnosed with traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder. “The Invictus Games presents the opportunity to represent my new nation – I have only been a US citizen for nine years – and to present to a wider audience what an injured service member or veteran can still do. I hope to inspire more wounded service members to take up rehabilitative athletics.”


Shawn Hook, 37, sitting volleyball, WCR, athletics & archery A retired Army sergeant, Sean was hit by improvised explosive devices on two separate tours of Iraq, suffering substantial injuries to his shoulder and a traumatic brain injury. “I have been introduced to sports that I never competed in before my injury, and to represent my country is a reminder of how far I have come since I started adaptive sports. Sports gave me goals, helped with my confidence and improved my focus. My family saw the positive change and focus it brought.”

Melissa Coduti, 32, powerlifting, athletics & indoor rowing

Angelo Anderson, 25, cycling, athletics & WCB

A retired Air Force Sergeant, Melissa has suffered from bilateral thoracic outlet syndrome since sustaining an injury in August 2002.

Angelo joined the Navy in 2007 and was on patrol with the Marines in Afghanistan when he sustained gunshot wounds to his arm and thigh.

“Because of adaptive sport I no longer feel left behind. I’ve found my Air Force family again. I am honoured to represent the US.”

“I was fortunate to survive the incident in Afghanistan and it’s changed my outlook. I live life for what it is and to the fullest.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 63 / Archery 32 / Cycling 51 Powerlifting 15 / Indoor Rowing 26 / Swimming 42 / SV / WCR / WCB Driving Challenge

John Kremer, 31, sitting volleyball & WCB Now retired, John was an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician in the Navy when he stepped on a land mine in 2010, losing his right foot, part of his left foot, and suffering additional shrapnel injuries. John has always been active in sports – he enjoyed wrestling before his injuries – and adaptive athletics has been critical to his recovery. He’s currently trying to earn a place in the US Paralympic biathlon team. “I think that to be part of the first Invictus Games is awesome, and I can’t wait.” INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 21


GEORGIA The Georgian Armed Forces were established in 1991 after independence was declared from the former Soviet Union, and have been participating in international peacekeeping missions since 1999, joining the US-led coalition forces in Iraq and the International Security Assistance Force operation in Afghanistan. Georgia’s military consists of approximately 37,000 active personnel.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN Major Malkhaz Shekelashvili 35, archery, volleyball Major Shekalashvili has served in the Georgian Armed Forces since 2001. In 2008, he was injured in an explosion in the Russo-Georgian War, causing the loss of a leg. Malkhaz took up shooting and archery as part of his rehabilitation. “I consider the Invictus Games a new challenge, one that I feel will boost my morale and self-confidence. Together with my Georgian brothers, we are determined to compete with dignity and honour.” EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 3 / Cycling 1 / Archery 3 / Indoor Rowing 3 / Swimming 1 / SV

ESTONIA

GERMANY

Estonia has been a full member of NATO since 2004 and has engaged in numerous peacekeeping missions including in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bosnia and Kosovo. Estonia also takes part in the EU anti-piracy mission off the coast of Somalia.

Great Britain and Germany have maintained a close alliance in the last half of the Twentieth Century. Recently, German troops were deployed to Afghanistan after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York. Germany currently has around 200,000 service personnel.

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN

INTERVIEW, TEAM CAPTAIN

Tarmo Lepik 27

Manfred Faget 42

Corporal Lepik lost both of his legs when he was struck by an improvised explosive device while on patrol in Afghanistan, in 2011. Now back working for the Estonian Defence Forces in Tallinn, he swims three times a week and is learning to cycle again.

In 2000, Manfred lost control of his motorbike on his way home from his unit, leading to the loss of his arm. He will take part in athletics, cycling and sitting volleyball at the Invictus Games.

“Having done some of my rehab in England, I feel a real affinity with the country, but I’ll never get used to English food – I prefer Estonian!” 22 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 2 / Powerlifting 1 Indoor Rowing 1 / Swimming 2 Driving Challenge

“I want to show how much a person can achieve, in spite of their disability. I want to see how other soldiers with injuries live, train and compete. And I want to test my brand new prosthesis! The only way is forward.”

EVENT COMPETITORS Athletics 18 / Cycling 17 Archery 9 / Indoor Rowing 10 Swimming 17 / SV / WCB WCR / Driving Challenge


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15/07/2014 09:43


THE TEAMS IN TRAINING

How the competitors have been preparing

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9am - 2pm /JLR Design & Engineering Centre, Gaydon

Don’t miss any of the action this week with our handy guide to the venues and times

WHAT’S ON & WHERE

TUES 9th

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Jaguar Land Rover Driving Challenge 7 - 8pm / South Park Lawn, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

WEDS 10th

Opening Ceremony 2 - 6pm / Lee Valley Athletics Centre

THUR 11th

Athletics

FRI 12th

10am - 12.30pm / Here East

2 - 5pm / Here East

Archery S1

Archery S2

8.30 - 11.30am / Copper Box Arena

1 - 4pm / Copper Box Arena

5.30 - 9pm / Copper Box Arena

Wheelchair Rugby S1

Wheelchair Rugby S2

Wheelchair Rugby S3

9am - 6.30pm / Lee Valley VeloPark

Road Cycling 10am - 1pm / Here East

SAT 13th

Indoor Rowing 9am - 12pm / Copper Box Arena

1.30 - 4.30pm / Copper Box Arena

6 - 9pm / Copper Box Arena

W/C Basketball S1

W/C Basketball S2

W/C Basketball S3

10am - 1pm / Here East

Powerlifting 12 - 3pm / London Aquatics Centre

Swimming

SUN 14th

8.30 - 11.30am / Copper Box Arena

1 - 4pm / Copper Box Arena

Sitting Volleyball S1

Sitting Volleyball S2 5 - 10pm / South Park Lawns, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Closing Ceremony

G LEE VALLEY ATHLETICS CENTRE

H

F

Athletics

J

K

Invictus Games Hospitality Lounge (invitation only)

Box Office

Outdoor TV screen

E

L C

B

GATE 1

GATE 2

Info Point

Blue Badge parking Ticket entrance

Coach drop off and pick up point to/from Tottenham Hale Station

ENTRANCE

For all vehicles

Meridian Way

A


A12

ENTRY / EXIT

Velodrome

Leyton Station

Outdoor TV screen

ENTRY / EXIT A12

VELOPARK

Prebooked Blue Badge parking

Cycling

Fri, Sat, Sun (except Closing Concert)

Tumbling Bay Playground Info Point & Box Office

Victory Park

Timber Lodge

HERE EAST (& Box Office) Powerlifting Archery

Wetlands

Indoor rowing

Stratford International Station

Prebooked Blue Badge parking Opening Ceremony & Closing Concert

ENTRY / EXIT

Westfield Stratford City

Hackney Wick

COPPER BOX ARENA Wheelchair rugby Jaguar Land Rover Experience

Wheelchair basketball Sitting volleyball

CLOSING CONCERT ENTRANCE

Carpenters Lock

ENTRY / EXIT Stratford Station

Info Point & Box Office

Invictus Games Hospitality Lounge hosted by BT (invitation only)

Fountain

AQUATICS CENTRE

Olympic Stadium

Swimming

ArcelorMittal Orbit

SOUTH PARK LAWN

OPENING CEREMONY ENTRANCE

Opening Ceremony & Closing Concert

WALKING DISTANCES 0 mins

5 mins

10 mins

WALKING DISTANCES

INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 29


RICKY FURGUSSON Great Britain Corporal Furgusson received the Military Cross for bravery after going to the aid of soldiers wounded by Improvised Explosive Devices in Afghanistan in 2010, losing both legs, an eye and fingers on both hands. “I never think about what I can’t do,” says Ricky, who will take part in the wheelchair basketball, athletics and road cycling. “I get on with life. Sport is how I do that.”

HEROES’ STORIES Photo: Lewis Whyld/ PA Wire

For some, just competing at the Invictus Games is a triumph. Here are their inspirational stories...

30 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014


RENÉE BERTRAND Canada

JONATHAN LE GALLOUDEC Great Britain

After completing a tour in Afghanistan, Sergeant Bertrand injured her leg playing badminton in 2013, leaving her unable to walk. “Adapted fitness training helped me find motivation,” says Renee, who will compete in the pool in London. “The Invictus Games are a chance to prove that even if a soldier cannot be a soldier in the true sense, he or she remains a fighter.”

Lance Corporal Le Galloudec was told he’d never walk again after a bullet struck his spine in Iraq in 2007. Three months later he walked out of hospital. Since then, Jonathan has climbed Kilimanjaro and trecked to Everest Base Camp. “The chance to compete in the same pool as my Paralympic heroes will go down as one of the best moments in my life,” says the vet.

SHAWN CHESHIRE USA

ALEXANDER TAARNBERG Denmark

While working as an emergency medical technician in the Army in 2009, Specialist Cheshire fell and hit her head, resulting in a loss of sight. Now a tandem road cyclist and biathlete, she plans to compete at the 2016 Paralympics and 2018 Winter Paralympics. First, though, is the Invictus Games, which Shawn describes as a “chance of a lifetime”.

After tours to Bosnia and Eritrea in 1999 and 2000 respectively with the Army, Alex fought alcoholism and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. “The Invictus Games marks the end of my treatment, thus signals a new beginning for me. It means I will be back on the field, performing in front of a large audience – a thrill I have not experienced for years.” INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 31


“My mum spent a lot of time with me during my recovery... she deserves this trip to London to finally get to enjoy an overseas experience”

JIMSHER CHKHENKELI Georgia While providing assistance to injured soldiers in the 2008 August (RussoGeorgian) War, Corporal Chkhenkeli was wounded by a bomb shell explosion, leading to the amputation of his right leg. Previously a keen footballer – Zinedine Zidane is his sporting hero – Jimsher is now a keen swimmer, shooter and also competed in cycling at this year’s Warrior Games in the US.

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“The Invictus Games is an opportunity to gain victory and bring fame to my motherland”


SARAH WEBSTER Australia

Photo: Lance Corporal Daniel Wetzel/defenseimagery.mil; © 2014 Australian Defence Image Library

While on tour in Iraq in 2006, Sergeant Webster was caught in an indirect fire attack, with a fractured skull, torn spleen, concussion, dislocated hip and broken kneecap among her injuries. After intense rehab, she pushed for redeployment and served in Afghanistan in 2008. “I was very excited when I got

the news that I’d be competing at the Invictus Games,” says Sarah. “but I was more excited to tell my mum that she could come with me. The only overseas trip that my mother has been on was to Germany when I was evacuated there from Iraq. She spent a lot of time with me during my recovery. My mum deserves this trip to London to finally get to enjoy an overseas experience.”

WHAT THE INVICTUS GAMES MEAN TO ME... Raigo Roots Estonia “Recovering from losing both of my legs and most of my sight in Afghanistan was quite a task, but my aim is now to compete in Rio at powerlifting, so I’m motivated to do well in London.”

Private Omaid Afghanistan “I am very happy to be involved in the Invictus Games in London as I have never travelled outside Afghanistan. I have seen Prince Harry on television and would like to meet him.”

Kyle BurnettBrooks Australia “I, like most veterans, have lost friends in conflict. This will give me a chance to represent those fallen comrades and remind people of the sacrifice and hardship of service men and women.”

Jacob ‘Doc’ Emmott USA “The biggest thing these events give me is a reason to do better. I can sit at home, hopped up on painkillers and feeling sorry for myself, or I can take up the challenge. I’m going after the challenge.”

Aaron Soppet New Zealand “Taking part in the Invictus Games provides me with a chance to recognise and give something back to my wife, Rachel, for her unfailing support and enduring patience in putting up with me.”

John de Ruiter Netherlands “These Games are unique because they bring together injured military personnel from all the armed forces. And when the Brits organise something with a prince as host, you know it’s going to be slick!” INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 33


Photo: Walking With The Wounded

The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry is The Patrons’ primary charitable vehicle, and aims to become a leading philanthropic investor; using its time and resources effectively to create lasting change in targeted areas and geographies, based on need and on the interests of The Duke and Duchess and Prince Harry.

Current areas of focus: – Veterans and Military Families – Children and Young People – Conservation and Sustainable Development The Royal Foundation is proud to be supporting our Service personnel through the Invictus Games.

SuPPoRTInG ouR SeRVICeMen anD WoMen

VeTeRanS eMPloYMenT The Royal Foundation continues to support those leaving the armed Forces to successfully transition back into civilian life.

enDeaVouR FunD In 2012, fuelled by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry’s commitment to supporting the recovery of wounded, injured and sick Service personnel and veterans, The Royal Foundation created the endeavour Fund.

The Foundation will use the Invictus Games as a platform to promote the importance of inclusive employment initiatives and highlight the transferable skills members of the armed Forces possess.

The endeavour Fund offers seed funding for sporting and adventurous challenges and helps emerging initiatives with advice, hands-on support and mentoring. The fund plays an important role to ensure that more Servicemen and women have the opportunity to rediscover their self-belief and fighting spirit through physical challenges, rebuilding their confidence and looking forward with optimism to the next chapter of their lives. To date the endeavour Fund has supported more than 380 Service personnel and veterans.

We hope by sharing case studies and encouraging business leaders to come together to discuss examples of success, we can help Service Leavers find fulfilling careers as they move back into civilian life.

FInD ouT MoRe:

www.royalfoundation.com www.endeavourfund.co.uk @endeavourFund e. info@royalfoundation.com T. 020 7101 2960





LEE VALLEY ATHLETICS CENTRE Athletics Thurs 11 Sept

Opened by Olympics Minister Tessa Jowell in January 2007, the largest indoor and outdoor athletics facility in the south of England has a six-lane indoor 200-metre track and 60- and 130-metre indoor straight sprint track as well as an eight-lane 400-metre outdoor track, with full jumps and throws capacity. Did you know...? Long jumper Greg Rutherford and Paralympic sprinter Jonnie Peacock are among the athletes who trained here before winning gold at London 2012.

COPPER BOX ARENA Wheelchair Rugby Fri 12 Sept Wheelchair Basketball Sat 13 Sept Sitting Volleyball Sun 14 Sept

The nicknamed ‘box that rocks’ hosted handball, modern pentathlon, fencing (Olympics) and goalball (Paralympics) in 2012, and has remained a multi-sport venue as well as being the new home of basketball team, the London Lions. It should live up to its nickname at the Invictus Games as it stages three of the most compelling disability sports. It was retained as an arena with a capacity of 7,000 after the London 2012 Olympics. Did you know...? The Copper Box was designed to incorporate light pipes and rainwater collectors to reduce both energy and water use by 40%.

HERE EAST Archery Fri 12 Sept Indoor Rowing Sat 13 Sept Powerlifting Sun 14 Sept

The venue of the Press and Broadcast Centres at London 2012 has become a new digital quarter for east London since the Olympics, with BT Sport among the new tenants. For the Invictus Games it will be transformed into a firstclass sports venue. While purpose-built arenas for the archery and powerlifting within the complex are not too difficult to imagine, all is not as it sounds with indoor rowing, which will take place not in a pool but on adapted rowing machines, with competitors racing over time and distance. Spectators will be able to follow this unique action on the big screen. Did you know...? Here East is the London base of Loughborough University’s new research centre for post-graduate studies across culture, business, sport, exercise and health.

LOC ATION, LOC ATION, LOC ATION The Invictus Games venues are no strangers to top sporting action

38 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014


LEE VALLEY VELOPARK

LONDON AQUATICS CENTRE

Road Cycling Sat 13 Sept

Swimming Sun 14 Sept

The indoor velodrome made this venue famous as GB’s Olympic and Paralympic cyclists struck gold at London 2012. Now the road circuit takes centre stage for the Invictus Games. The one-mile long, six-metre wide track has a smooth, asphalt surface for optimum speed, but with three-metre safety zones on either side, and also features two bridges over the River Lee. The track is also floodlit, enabling use around the clock.

The design jewel in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park’s crown has changed somewhat since London 2012. Gone are the ‘wings’ of what some interpreted as a ‘ray’ design, reducing the capacity from 17,500 to 2,500, with 1,000 additional seats available for major events.

Did you know...? The venue is built on the site of the former Eastway Cycle Circuit, where five-time Tour de France winner Eddy Merckx raced, as well as a young Bradley Wiggins.

Did you know...? The venue was reopened to the public in March, hosting part of the 2014 FINA/NVC Diving World Series in April.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER DESIGN AND ENGINEERING CENTRE, GAYDON Driving Challenge, Tues 9 September

There’s an exciting new role for the extensive test track and proving ground at Jaguar Land Rover’s advanced research and development centre in Warwickshire – it’s the competition venue for the Invictus Games Driving Challenge. Much of the company’s innovative vehicle engineering and development takes place in the cutting-edge facilities at Gaydon, also home to the Land Rover and Range Rover design studios. Did you know ...? The Design and Engineering Centre sits alongside the Heritage Motor Centre, which is home to the world’s largest collection of British cars, including many historic Jaguar and Land Rover vehicles.

INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 39


ATHLETICS (TRACK & FIELD) VITAL INFORMATION When: Thursday 11 September Where: The sound of the starting gun will kick off Day One of the Invictus Games at the Lee Valley Athletics Centre. Our warriors will be competing for medals in a range of track and field events.

THE LOWDOWN The most widely-practised Paralympic sport, with athletes in over 120 countries taking part, some of them household names in their own right.

THE CATEGORIES Track: 100m, 200m, 400m, 1500m & mixed classification 4x100m Relay. 1. IT1 (Ambulant) Single or double below-knee amputees. 2. IT2 (Ambulant) Single or double above-knee amputees. 3. IT3 (Ambulant) Upper-limb amputees, permanent upper body limb dysfunction. 4. IT4 Wheelchair racing participants. 5. IT5 Visually impaired. 6. IT6 Minor or non-permanent physical disabilities and other illnesses.

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

Standing throws (Discus and Shot): 7. IF1 (Standing) Single leg or arm amputee or other permanent leg/arm dysfunction. 8. IF2 Minor or nonpermanent physical disabilities and other illnesses. 9. IF3 Visually impaired. Seated throws (Discus and Shot): 10. IF4 (Wheelchair user) Paraplegic, minimal/no use of lower extremities, primary or full-time wheelchair user. Feet may 40 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

be on ground, but cannot provide the athlete a height advantage or leverage. 11. IF5 (Other seated) Other disabilities, including lower-limb amputees. Participants in this category must compete with their feet off the ground and secured to the throwing chair/frame. Amputees who compete in this category may not use their prosthetics.

THE FACTS Each amputee track athlete uses his or her own tailormade prosthesis. The socket is one of the most important parts as it needs to fit perfectly to the residual limb.

DID YOU K NOW…?

Private Derek Derenalagi represented Gr eat Britain at London 2012 in the F57 Disc us, reaching the final, just five years after lo sing both of his legs.

Runners with visual impairments employ superfit guides joined to them by a rope attached to their wrists. In some field events, the athlete who throws the specified item furthest is not always the outright winner as results can be ‘factored’ to take into account the degree of the impairments of each competitor. After each throw, the athlete secures a number of points based on a combination of the distance and the level of impairment. The most successful athlete in the history of the Paralympic Games is wheelchair racer, Franz Nietlispach. He amassed 14 gold and six silver medals between 1976 and 2008 and also respresented Switzerland in table tennis and hand cycling. He’s now a politician.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1952 Wheelchair racing is part of the Stoke Mandeville Games, organised for injured World War Two veterans. 1960 Athletics is one of eight sports included

at the inaugural Paralympic Games in Rome. Great Britain’s Dick Thompson wins four golds. 2012 Over 1,000 track and field athletes compete in 170 medal events at London 2012.


WHEELCHAIR BASKETBALL VITAL INFORMATION

THE FACTS

When: Saturday 13 September Where: In the Copper Box Arena, expect end-to-end action from eight nations as they compete in a 5v5 tournament, with the final at the end of the day.

Wheelchair basketball is played on a regulation basketball court, with standard ten-foot hoops and scoring system.

THE LOWDOWN

‘Travelling’ occurs when the player with the ball touches their wheels more than twice after receiving or dribbling the ball. The player in possession must pass, bounce or shoot the ball before touching their wheels again.

One of the oldest and most popular disability team sports, wheelchair basketball retains most of the same rules and characteristics as its ambulant equivalent, including the five-a-side format and end-to-end nature.

It is known for non-disabled athletes using wheelchairs to compete alongside other athletes in mixed teams.

THE CATEGORIES Three categories of player are able to compete as member of each squad:

The USA men’s team have won six world titles. Canada’s women’s team have won four.

1. Disability (D) Players with significant orthopaedic or other impairments/conditions, such as a complete loss of motor function or significant loss of strength and/or range of motion in a joint, including knee, ankle, shoulder or elbow.

3. Open (O) Players with minor or non-permanent physical disabilities and other illnesses that do not necessarily affect motor control or balance. Please note: • Each squad can consist of a maximum of 12 players

1944 Ludwig Guttmann, through his rehabilitation program at the Stoke Mandeville Hospital, adapts the existing sport using wheelchairs. It’s known as wheelchair netball. 1946 American World War Two disabled veterans start playing wheelchair basketball. 1948 Netball is introduced in the Stoke Mandeville Wheelchair Games. 1956 Wheelchair basketball, as it is now known, is first played at the International Stoke Mandeville Games, the US ‘Pan Am Jets’ winning the tournament.

and must include at least one female player. • Only one Open player can be on the court at any time. • A maximum of two Minimal Disability players can be on the court at any one time, unless there are no Open players on court, in which case three Minimal Disability players are allowed.

DID YOU K NOWpe…rs?onality

and TV presenter e was part of th n ita Ade Adep on w at th am te Great Britain 2004 Athens bronze at the ng and 2008 Beiji es. m Ga c pi m ly Para

1973 The inaugural Wheelchair Basketball World Championship, won by Great Britain, is staged in Belgium. 1989 The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) is formed as a sub-section of the International Stoke Mandeville Games Federation (ISMGF). 1993 The IWBF becomes independent, assuming full responsibility for the running and development of the sport. INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 41

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

2. Minimal Disability (MD) Players with certain orthopaedic conditions, such as a measurable loss of flexibility, strength and/or mobility in a limb or joint, or loss of fingers and/or part of a limb.

A BRIEF HISTORY


WHEELCHAIR RUGBY VITAL INFORMATION When: Friday 12 September Where: The Copper Box Arena plays host to six nations and three breathless sessions with medal matches at the end of the day.

THE LOWDOWN

THE FACTS

Like its conventional cousin, wheelchair rugby at its best can be all-action, fast-moving and extremely physical. It’s not called ‘Murderball’ for nothing. The Invictus Games will see one tournament, with male and female players of mixed disability (see below).

Despite its name, wheelchair rugby uses a ball with the same size and shape to a volleyball.

THE CATEGORIES Just like wheelchair basketball, there are three categories of player that are able to compete as member of each squad: 1. Disability (D) Players with significant orthopaedic or other impairments/conditions. 2. Minimal Disability (MD) Players with certain orthopaedic conditions. 3. Open (O) Players with minor or non-permanent physical disabilities and other illnesses that do not necessarily affect motor control or balance.

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

Please note: • Each squad can consist of a maximum of ten players and must include at least one female player. • A maximum of one Open player can be on the court at any time. • A maximum of two Minimal Disability players can be on the court at any one time, unless there are no Open players on court, in which case three Minimal Disability players are allowed. 42 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

The court is the same size as a basketball court, but with slightly different marking, chief among them an 1.75x8m ‘key’ area at each end. A point is scored by a player travelling with the ball across the goalline within the width of the key area. Teams have 12 seconds to advance the ball from their back court to the front court and 40 seconds to score or they concede possession. A player with possession of the ball must bounce or pass the ball within ten seconds.

DID YOU K NOW…?

mentary The 2005 docu ch hi focuses on Murderball, w A tween the US be ry the rival , ry al riv s’ am and Canada te for ed at in m no was ard. an Academy Aw

The Jaguar Land Rover Exhibition Wheelchair Rugby Match will be taking place during the final session on Friday 12 September. This will see two teams made up of Invictus Games competitors and personalities from the worlds of sport, music and television go head-to-head in what is set to be a spectacular match. The teams will compete for the trophy in two eight-minute halves in this unique event.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1976 Murderball, so called because of its aggressive, full-contact nature, is invented by four Canadian wheelchair athletes. 1981 Introduced to the United States by Brad Mikkelsen, who forms the country’s first team, the Wallbangers.

1981 First introduced to Australia, where the sport has thrived.

1993 Officially recognised as an international sport for athletes with disabilities.

1988 The sport’s name is changed outside the United States to wheelchair rugby and in the US to quad rugby.

1995 First World Wheelchair Rugby Championship takes place.

1989 First international tournament.

2000 Given full medal status at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.


SITTING VOLLEYBALL DID YOU K NOW…?

VITAL INFORMATION When: Sunday 14 September Where: Eight nations will take to three courts on Day Four in the Copper Box Arena. The medals awarded here will be the final medals of the Invictus Games. Are we saving the best to last?

r ttock – in othe At least one bu be t us m lvis – words, the pe n the floor whe in contact with t ac nt es co a player mak with the ball.

THE LOWDOWN

THE CATEGORIES Three categories of player are able to compete as member of each squad: 1. Disability (D) Players with significant orthopaedic or other impairments/ conditions, such as a complete loss of motor function or significant loss of strength and/or range of motion in a joint. 2. Minimal Disability (MD) Players with certain orthopaedic conditions, such as a measurable loss of flexibility, strength and/or mobility in a limb or joint.

3. Open (O) Players with minor or non-permanent physical disabilities and other illnesses. Please note: • Each squad can consist of a maximum of 12 players and must include at least one female player. • A maximum of two Open players can be on the court at any time. • A maximum of four Minimal Disability players can be on the court at any one time. • A minimum of two Disability players must be on the court at any time.

THE FACTS Internationally, sitting volleyball players have to have a disability to compete but, domestically, players with and without a disability all compete together in the Volleyball England Sitting Volleyball Grand Prix. It is played on a smaller court (10x6 metres) and with a lower net (1.10 metres) than conventional volleyball, making for a faster game.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1950s The game emerges in the Netherlands, a combination of volleyball and a German game called Sitzbal. 1976 First appears at the Paralympic Games, in Toronto, as a demonstration sport, becoming a medal sport thereafter. 2005 GB’s sitting volleyball programme is revived (it was disbanded in 1991) after London is awarded the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In another difference from volleyball, teams are allowed to block the opposition’s serve.

2012 GB compete in their first Paralympic sitting volleyball tournament, both men’s and women’s teams finishing eighth. Of the 22 players selected in total, three were service personnel.

It’s played in a best-of-fiveset format, and the first to reach 25 points (with at least a 2-point lead) wins the game.

2014 BattleBack win the third Volleyball England Sitting Volleyball Grand Prix, beating East London Lynx 3-2 in the final in Kettering. INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 43

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

Like volleyball, this is a six-a-side sport with three touches allowed on each side of the net and with the traditional techniques of serve, dig, volley, set, spike and block to the fore. The Invictus Games will see one tournament, with male and female players of mixed disability (see below) competing together.


ARCHERY VITAL INFORMATION When: Friday 12 September Where: Here East will be the venue where our competitors will pit their skills of marksmanship against each other using both compound and recurve bows and aim for targets 18m away.

THE LOWDOWN

THE FACTS

Archery is open to all illness/ injury groups, with men and women competing together in each category. Participants may only compete in one category, but may shoot from a standing or sitting position.

World Archery has over 150 members and is based in the Olympic capital of Lausanne, Switzerland, where the 2014 World Cup final will be held.

THE CATEGORIES 1. Novice Recurve (IA2) For archers who only started to participate on or after 1 January 2014 and do not own their own equipment. 2. Open Recurve (IA2) For archers who own or have on loan a Recurve bow, and ancillary equipment, and who have been participating in the sport on or before 31 December 2013.

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

3. Open Compound (IA3) For archers who own or have on loan a Compound bow, and ancillary equipment, who have been participating in the sport on or before 31 December 2013. 4. Team Event Each team of three will be comprised of one archer from each of the categories above, who participated in the individual event.

There are 15 million archers worldwide, with 21 nations across all the continents winning Olympic medals since it was reintroduced in 1972. South Korea are the sport’s major force with 14 golds, including three at London 2012. Archery’s premier international tour is the Archery World Cup, consisting of four stages followed by the final, which is held in iconic venues around the world. One previous final was staged beneath the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1583 Three thousand archers compete in first documented event in Finsbury, England. 1900 Archery first appears in the Olympic programme, becoming one of the first sports to include a women’s competition in 1904. 1948 16 injured servicemen and women take part in archery during inaugural Stoke Mandeville Games. 1960 Archery appears on the programme at the first Paralympic Games in Rome. 1972 Archery returns to Olympic programme for first time since 1920. 2012 London hosts most successful Olympic archery event to date, with record attendances and television viewing figures.

44 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

DID YOU K NOW…?

An archery ta rget has a diameter of 122 cms with ten conc entric circles at the centre of which is the gold scor ing zone, worth ten poin ts.


POWERLIFTING VITAL INFORMATION When: Sunday 14 September Where: Here East will spotlight the competitors as they take to the stage to chest press their maximum weight in either lightweight or heavyweight categories.

THE LOWDOWN That’s benchpressing to you and me. What used to be a source of strength training, dating as far back as Ancient Greek and Roman times, is now a sport which combines gravity-defying athleticism with great theatre, as athletes attempt to lift around three times their own body weight.

THE CATEGORIES Powerlifting is open to all illness and injury groups in each of the following four categories: 1. Men – Lightweight (IP1) Up to 72kg 2. Men – Heavyweight (IP2) 72.01kg and above 3. Women – Lightweight (IP3) Up to 61kg 4. Women – Heavyweight (IP4) 61.01kg and above. The winner in each category will be determined using the AH Formula, which multiplies a figure representing each competitor’s bodyweight by their best result.

THE FACTS Whereas powerlifting traditionally consists of three different types of lift: the squat, bench press and dead lift, Para-powerlifting has featured the bench press only since 1992. To execute a successful lift, each competitor must lower the bar to the chest, hold it motionless and then press it upwards to arm’s length with locked elbows. Athletes are given three attempts to perform a successful lift. Athletes must increase the weight attempted by at least 1kg following a successful lift.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1899 American George Hackenshmift performs the first known bench press, lifting 361 pounds. 1964 Weightlifting makes its debut at the Tokyo Paralympic games. 1984 Powerlifting is officially introduced alongside weightlifting for the Paralympics in New York. 1992 It is decided that the Paralympics should feature only powerlifting for the Barcelona games. 2000 Women’s powerlifting is introduced to the Paralympics in Athens.

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

DID YOU K NOW…?

Scot Micky Yu le competed at the recent Co mmonwealth Games as a po werlifter, just four year s after losing both legs serv ing in Afghanista n.

INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 45


SWIMMING VITAL INFORMATION When: Sunday 14 September Where: Competitors will take to the pool in the London Aquatics Centre to compete in events over both 50m and 100m. The proceedings will be concluded with a number of team relay contests which promise to get you on the edge of your seats.

THE LOWDOWN One of the biggest Paralympic sports and one at which Britain excel – winning 41 medals at the Beijing Games and another 39 in London – swimming at the Invictus Games takes place at the iconic Aquatics Centre, made famous at the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics.

THE CATEGORIES

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

1. IS1 Representative of S1-5 in International classification (with consideration across S (freestyle, backstroke and butterfly) and SB (breaststroke) categories. Injuries/illnesses and functionality: three or more limbs severely affected, including trible amputees, quad amputees and quadriplegics. 2. IS2 Representative of S6-8 in International Classification (with consideration across S and SB strokes). Injuries/illnesses and functionality: double through knee amputees, complete paraplegic, single above-elbow amputee, double hand amputee, above elbow and above knee amputee on opposite sides, double below-elbow amputee, double aboveelbow amputee. Please note: this could also include severe trauma as opposed to amputation.

46 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

3. IS3 Representative of S9-10 in International Classification (with consideration across S & SB strokes). Injuries/illnesses and functionality: half hand missing, single belowknee amputee, double foot amputee, severe hip restriction, single aboveknee amputee, double below-knee amputee, single below-elbow amputee, single throughknee amputee, single through-elbow amputee, incomplete (ambulant) paraplegic, one nonfunctional leg, trauma to one arm with significant functional impairment, blind or visually impaired (VI). Please note: as before, where it states amputation, this would include severe trauma. 4. IS4 Open Class and Minimal Physical Impairments. Injuries/illnesses and functionality: psychological injury (post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression), minor physical impairment (including gunshot wound with minimal/no function impairment or minimal muscle loss, minimal loss of passive/active range of movement), Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) with minimal functional impairment.

THE FACTS No prostheses or assistive devices are permitted in the pool during competition. Swimmers are classified on their functional ability to perform each stroke as well as according to the nature of their injuries or illnesses. As each category could include athletes with physical, visual and intellectual impairments, the rules of the International Swimming Federation (FINA) are modified to include optional starting platforms and in-water starts for some athletes or the use of signals or ‘tappers’ (assistants who notifies the athlete as he/she is approaching the swimming pool wall to make a turn or finish the race). Swimming was one of eight sports practiced at the first Paralympic Games in 1960 in Rome, Italy and is now one of the most popular. The USA’s Trischa Zorn is the sport’s most decorated Paralympian having won 32 gold, nine silver and five bronze medals between 1980 and 2004. At the London 2012 Paralympics, 604 swimmers from 74 countries competed in 148 medal events across a staggering 14 categories.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1960 Swimming is one of eight sports included in the programme for the first official Paralympic Games in Rome, with all races taking place across 25 metres or 50 metres. 1964 As well as 31 medal events for men and 30 for women, the Tokyo Paralympic Games witnesses a mixed event for the only time, an ‘open’ medley relay. 1992 The minimum race distance in Paralympic swimming is increased from 25m to 50m at the Barcelona Games. 2008 Ellie Simmonds wins two gold medals aged just 13 at the Beijing Paralympics, winning two more at London in 2012.

DID YOU K NOW…? s sight

sing hi A year after lo an improvised on after stepping tan, ce in Afghanis explosive devi ad Br nt na te eu US Navy Li o golds at Snyder won tw 12. 20 on Lond


INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 47


INDOOR ROWING VITAL INFORMATION When: Saturday 13 September Where: Staged in Here East, the competitors will race in events over four minute and one-minute durations on adapted rowing machines.

THE LOWDOWN Otherwise known as Ergometer rowing, indoor rowing has been widely used in gym training and preparation for rowers for several decades, but has recently become a sport in its own right.

THE CATEGORIES 1. IR1: Triple amputees. Functionality: competitors have a complex trauma injury to three or more limbs. Equipment: static rowing seat (flat or upright) and single hand grip.

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

2. IR2: Those who can use only arms and shoulders, no leg or trunk function. Functionality: Unable to pass a long sit test (i.e. unable to lean forwards and backwards 45 degrees with their legs straight out in front of them and their arms out straight at shoulder height), unable to perform a standing squat. Equipment: upright rowing seat with lap, pelvic and chest strap. 3. IR3: Upper limb impairments only, full leg and trunk function. Functionality: would row with one arm, are able to propel themselves on a sliding seat. Equipment: single hand grip, standard towing seat and set-up.

48 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

4. IR4: For those with severe leg impairments, but with trunk function. Functionality: Unable to perform a standing squat, unable to propel themselves on a sliding seat (with and without prosthetics). Equipment: static, flat seat with two leg straps. 5. IR5: Use of legs, trunk and arms but with a physical impairment. Can also include neurological impairments with a physiological impact. Functionality: able to row using legs, trunk and arms, able to propel a sliding seat. Equipment: standard rowing seat. 6. IR6: Open, for all those without a physical injury or with minimal physical injury. Functionality: Able to row using legs, trunk and arms on a standard rowing machine. Equipment: standard rowing seat and set-up. Please note: hand grips are allowed if athlete’s grip is impaired.

DID YOU K NOW…?

Army Captain Nick Beighton competed in th e mixed doub le sculls at Lond on 2012 after losing both hi s legs in a roadside bom bing in Afghanistan in 2009.


THE FACTS Rowers will race over time as well as distance in team and individual events at the Invictus Games. In the 2014 CRASH-B Sprints – unofficially the Indoor Rowing World Championships since 1995 – 96-year-old Paul Randall was the sole competitor in the 95-99-year-old lightweight men’s category. Over 2,000 athletes from 25 countries competed at the event in Boston, Massachussetts. The 2014 English Indoor Rowing Championships took place at the Manchester Velodrome in March, welcoming 650 competitors from across the UK.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1872 First patent for a rowing machine is issued in the US to a WB Curtis. 1956 Olympic champion rower John Harrison and Professor Frank Cotton develop the Harrison-Cotton machine, the first piece of equipment able to accurately quantify human power output. 1970s The Gjessing-Nilson ergometer from Norway becomes the internationally accepted standard for measurement. 1981 The Dreissigackers, two rowing brothers from the US, make an indoor rowing machine using mainly bicycle parts. The result is the Concept2 and is the basis of ergometers today. 1998 The English Indoor Rowing Championship (EIRC) takes place for the first time. 2002 Adaptive rowing is introduced at World Championship level for the first time.

INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 49


ROAD CYCLING VITAL INFORMATION When: Saturday 13 September Where: A newly-designed road circuit that loops around the Lee Valley VeloPark will be the home of Road Cycling at the Invictus Games.

THE LOWDOWN

THE FACTS

A relatively new competitive sport for people with disabilities, cycling was first developed by riders with visual impairments who competed on tandem bicycles, but is now firmly in the spotlight thanks to British success in recent years.

At London 2012, 225 Paralympians competed across 32 medal events in the road cycling.

THE CATEGORIES The following categories will see men and women compete separately for medals: Road Bike 1. Major disability (IRB1) For those who meet the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) criteria for a C1-C3 cyclist. 2. Other disability (IRB2) For those who meet the IPC criteria for a C4-C5 cyclist. 3. Open (IC3) For those who do not have a permanent disability that affects cycling performance. Hand Bike

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

4. Major disability (IHB1) For hand cyclists who meet the IPC criteria of H1-H3. 5. Other disability (IHB2) For hand cyclists who meet the IPC criteria of H4-H5. Recumbent Bike 6. (IRecB1) For cyclists with orthopaedic or other conditions that prohibit them from riding a two-wheel upright bike or hand bike. 50 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014

Having won seven medals at the Athens 2004 Paralympics, Great Britain’s haul increased to 22 at London 2012, with Sarah Storey winning four golds to go with the two she won at Beijing 2008 and five she’d previously won as a Paralympic swimmer. Also among the notable cyclists at the 2012 Paralympics was Italian Alex Zanardi. The former Formula One driver lost both his legs in a CART racing accident in 2001 and, after taking up hand cycling in 2007, won two road cycling golds in London.

A BRIEF HISTORY 1984 Road cycling first appears at the Paralympics in New York, for athletes with cerebral palsy. 1988 Road cycling for athletes with visual impairments only is included in the Paralympics. 1992 Races for different impairments are added to the Paralympic programme for the Barcelona Games, with athletes with cerebral palsy readmitted alongside amputee athletes and wheelchair athletes. 1996 Track cycling added to the Paralympic programme for the Atlanta Games. 2004 Hand cycling added the Paralympic programme for the Athens Games. 2008 Hand cycling classifications are including for the first time at the Beijing Paralympics.

DID YOU K NOW…?

RAF veteran Jo n-Allan Butterworth w on two track cycling silver medals at Lond on 2012, and also took part in th e road races, af ter losing an arm in Iraq in 2007.


THE JAGUAR LAND ROVER DRIVING CHALLENGE VITAL INFORMATION When: Tuesday 9 September Where: The Jaguar Land Rover Design and Engineering Centre in Gaydon hosts this exciting event.

DID YOU K NOW…?

The curtain raiser for the Invictus Games, the Jaguar Land Rover Driving Challenge will see the first medals of the Games won, with teams from 11 nations competing. As presenting partner, Jaguar Land Rover is proud to be bringing a driving challenge to the Invictus Games, and has a history of supporting wounded, injured and sick service personnel through their involvement in the Race2Recovery motorsport team. Taking place at the Jaguar Land Rover Design and Engineering Centre in Gaydon, Warwickshire, two competition stages will challenge the competitors’ driving and navigation skills. Great driving alone will not be enough to win gold, with the navigator also key to the team’s success. Good teamwork, cohesion and communication will be essential in making the podium.

the driver, will also have to decide on the route to the next gate. The stage will be rapid and loud, with the best drivers and most spatially-aware navigators likely to come out on top. A second off-road stage will see competitors face a similar challenge, driving a Land Rover Discovery. Over rough terrain, steep gradients and through deep water, the teams must complete the course’s obstacles in the correct order to maximise their performance. As the driver and Land Rover tackle the course, the navigator will need to remain focused on guiding the driver to the next gate in the shortest distance possible.

THE STAGES

THE COMPETITION

Teams made up of a driver and navigator will compete across two different stages, with a series of gates required to be correctly negotiated in the prescribed order. First, the teams will have to navigate their way around Jaguar Land Rover’s test track in a Jaguar F-TYPE to find the correct gate. Driving precision is essential, as the vehicle will have to be accurately positioned within each gate to avoid incurring a time penalty. The navigator, whilst guiding

Times from each stage will be amalgamated to give a total time. With these times used to rank the teams, the four quickest pairs will qualify for the finals with everything to fight for. They will drive each course again, this time with a new sequence of gates. After the final round has been completed, the four teams will be ranked according to their total time, with the first Gold, Silver and Bronze medals of the Invictus Games awarded to the three quickest teams.

THE CARS

In 2013, the Ra ce2Recovery team supporte d by Land Rover becam e the first disabled team to complete the fearsome Dakar rally.

F-TYPE Powerful, agile and distinctive, F-TYPE is a true Jaguar sports car, engineered for high performance and instantaneously responsive handling. Supercharged engines, lightweight aluminium body construction and advanced driving technologies deliver an experience that is intuitive, instinctive and alive.

Discovery The Land Rover Discovery’s design is bolder and more distinguished than ever. That’s why Discovery is always in its element, whether it’s crossing town or taking everyone way beyond the city limits towards the great outdoors. Discovery features advanced technology to help the driver feel more connected to the road and deliver a more engaged and responsive drive. Now, getting there can be as enjoyable as being there. INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 51

Correct at time of going to press 01.09.2014

THE LOWDOWN


CLOSING CONCERT

FOO FIGHTERS KAISER CHIEFS

ELLIE GOULDING RYAN ADAMS JAMES BLUNT THE VAMPS RIZZLE KICKS DIVERSITY

MILITARY WIVES CHOIR QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 2014 WWW.INVICTUSGAMES.ORG 52 – INVICTUS GAMES 2014




THANK YOU to our Partners, Supporters and Donors

PRESENTING PARTNER

OFFICIAL SUPPORTERS

®

INVICTUS DONORS The Dwight D. Opperman Foundation American Friends of The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry BGC Partners and The Cantor Fitzgerald Relief Fund Compass Group plc Derek and Dorothy Crowson Cristina and Alexander Fitzgibbons Dr Haruhisa Handa, Chairman ISPS HANDA Isabelle Georgeaux and Patrick Healy The Hintze Family Charitable Foundation Mr and Mrs A J Langley Lady Rose Monson Paddy and Annabel Nicoll Janice and Earle O’Born Prudential plc Mr and Mrs Derrick Smith The Duke of Westminster KG CB CVO OBE TD CD DL Jon Wood Bob Woodruff Foundation INVICTUS GAMES 2014 – 55



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