Prince Harry recently released a video message to announce the cancellation of the Invictus Games due to the global coronavirus pandemic. The Duke of Sussex launched the international adaptive multi-sport event in 2014, where wounded, injured or sick armed service personnel and their associated veterans gather and have a friendly competition.
In his heartfelt message, Prince Harry shared that he understood the disappointment of those who had been training for a long time to compete. However, he pointed out that everyone’s safety and wellbeing are more important during this time of crisis.
“I’m so grateful for everybody who has worked so incredibly hard over the last couple of weeks to try and find any alternative to carry out these games, in a different way and in a safe way,” he said. “But this decision was the most sensible and the safest option for all of you and your families as well as everybody else involved in these games. I know how disappointed you all must be. This is a focus that so many of you need. I would encourage you to maintain that focus as best you can”
Prince Harry then told everyone to look at the bright side. He said that competitors will have another year to prepare and get even better.
“The good thing is 12 or so months to be even fitter, to get even fitter than you already are and be at your absolute top mental and physical fitness,” he said. “So in that sense, I am really excited about the games next year.”
Prince Harry ended his message by telling everyone to take care of themselves. He apologized and told them to do the proper precautions to avoid being exposed to the deadly virus.
“I’m sorry that we could not provide this for you. Please look after yourself. Please look after your families and please look out for one another,” the Duke of Sussex said. “You guys are all in these chat groups, you know what to look out for. So please take care of yourselves, but do what you do best which is reaching out to other people, be it those that still wear the uniform, used to wear the uniform or just those people in your community who you know may be suffering or may be vulnerable during this period. Do what you do best and we will do everything that we can to get you a date and a time for you to show up next year. You’ll be the first to know. Again really sorry we couldn’t make this happen. But take care of yourselves and I’ll catch up with you soon.”
