The team, which has been trained and supported by Help for Heroes and the Ministry of Defence, has been selected on criteria such as their commitment to training, performance and progression in their sport following a three-month training and trial period.

Prince Harry has been a key supporter of the Games, which are based on the Warrior Games in the United States, and speaking at the announcement of the team in London today, he said: "I'm obviously delighted to be here to introduce the British team for the Invictus Games.

"To all of you behind me, I'd like to congratulate you on making the team.

"These men and women have achieved so much already, but being selected for the team, they have reached another significant milestone in a life beyond injury.

"However, the Games are not just about those taking part, but all those in their wider family."

Britain will have 130 competitors taking part in the Games at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park next month ©Getty Images



More than 400 competitors from 14 nations are expected to take in the event, due to take place from September 10 to 14.

Britain will have by far the biggest squad, which is made up of 69 per cent from the Army, 31 per cent from the Navy and eight per cent from the Royal Air Force.

Fifty-eight per cent of the team are veterans are 42 per cent are still serving members of the Armed Forces.

Dave Henson, who lost his legs in an improvised explosive device explosion in Afghanistan, has been named as captain of the team.

"When I was injured I thought that was it, my life was over," said Henson.

"The confidence boost that sport gave me was huge and to be selected as part of the British team for the Invictus Games is a huge honour.

"I really hope the British public both really get behind the Games and come and support us in person.

"It's going to be a truly inspirational event."

Prince Harry speaks to British team captain Dave Henson at the team announcement
©Getty Images



Competitors are set to take part in nine adaptive sports - athletics, archery, wheelchair basketball, road cycling, powerlifting, indoor rowing, wheelchair rugby, swimming and sitting volleyball.

There will also be a unique driving challenge organised by Games presenting partner, Jaguar Land Rover.

As well as being championed by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games have been supported by the Ministry of Defence, The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and the Help for Heroes charity.

Head of sports recovery at Help for Heroes and the British team manager, Martin Colclough, said: "Help for Heroes are delighted to have played a part in the training and development of the British Armed Forces as part of our sports recovery programme.

"Sport plays such an important part in the recovery of our ill and injured and it's fantastic we've been able to provide them with this opportunity.

"We've got a great team that are going to be a force to be reckoned with during the Invictus Games."

Tickets for the Invictus Games are priced at £12.85 ($21.45/€16) and can be purchased here.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


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