The Invictus Games are about survival in the face of adversity and the strength of the human spirit. They will send a positive message about life beyond disability.

Over 400 competitors from 13 nations took part in the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for wounded, injured and sick Servicemen and women. Teams came from the armed forces of nations that have served alongside each other. The Games usedthe power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation, and generate a wider understanding and respect of those who serve their country. The event, which is championed by Prince Harry, is a celebration of resilience and passion. The Games shine a spotlight on Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have put their lives on the line for their country demonstrating how they and their families are valued, respected and supported.

Wheel Chair Rugby

Archery

Wheel Chair Basketball

POwerlifting

There is no official medal table at the Invictus Games, which celebrate the fighting spirit of all the competitors.

Resilience Resilience is ability to recover readily from illness, depression, adversity, or the like. Are you resilient? When have you been resilient in your life? How could you use this resilience in your learning?

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 “unconquerable” and these 16 short lines encapsulate the indefatigable human spirit, which is at the heart of the Invictus Games. Invictus 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

Much of the text and imagery used in this PowerPoint has been taken from the Invictus Games Official Website.