Speaking the same language, running the same race

Photo By Robert Whetstone | U.S. Air Force veteran Adam Popp and U.S. Army veteran Will Reynolds lock back at the jumbotron screen to review the results of their men’s 100 meter preliminary heat, September 24, at York Lion Stadium, Toronto, Canada, during the Invictus Games. The games take place September 23-30. Invictus is an international Paralympic-style, multi-sport event, created by Prince Harry of Wales, in which wounded, injured or ill armed service members from around the world participate in sports including wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, sitting volleyball, athletics (track and throwing field events), archery, cycling, wheelchair tennis, powerlifting, golf, swimming, and indoor rowing. Over 500 participants from 17 countries will compete in the games. (U.S. Army photo by Robert A. Whetstone)  

TORONTO, ON, CANADA

09.27.2017

Story by Robert Whetstone 

Army Recovery Care Program

By Robert A. Whetstone
Brooke Army Medical Center Public Affairs

TORONTO – Language can sometimes lead to confusion. At the 2017 Invictus Games hosted by the city of Toronto, words, however, are not needed to express the emotion of the 500 plus athletes from 17 nations. It is written on their faces. Determination, joy, and accomplishment require no translator. During the athletics competition that took place on September 24-25, every athlete conveyed the same message: I AM.

For Invictus, the term “athletics” is most commonly known as track and throwing events. The conditions were perfect for all the competitors competing in athletics, even though it was unseasonably warm this time of year in Toronto. U.S. Army Col. Daniel Dudek said his teammates discussed the heat and came up with a simple plan. “We just looked at each other and said let’s do it; let’s get it done.” Dudek said when they took that attitude they didn’t really notice the weather.

Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines are used to operating in austere conditions. Wounded, ill, or injured service members deal with an increased level of complexity. That’s what makes events like Invictus so rewarding. The inspiration exhibited during two days of athletics, are exactly the kind of example Prince Harry of Wales alluded to as he spoke to the crowd during the opening ceremony “In a world where so many have reasons to feel cynical and apathetic, I wanted to find a way for veterans to be a beacon of light,” he said. We all win when we respect our friends, neighbors and communities. That’s why we created Invictus.”

Athletics consisted of 79 categories, based on the level of injury or illness a service member possesses. Illnesses or injuries ranged from post-traumatic stress disorder to triple amputee. The categories allow athletes to compete with their peers; in essence, run the same race. Competitors participated in races of 100 meters, 200 meters, 1500 meters; either running or in racing wheelchairs. They also threw the discus and shot from a standing or seated position.

Earning a medal at the Invictus Games is a well-earned reward, but many of the athletes say it is about overcoming adversity, rather than beating an opponent. U.S. Army veteran Bobby Green participated in a specific category of seated discus and archery at the games. “I’m speechless,” said Green. “It was just a great feeling to have everyone come together. Whether you were on court (or not), everyone had a role. It’s an awesome feeling.”

To see the results of Invictus Games events go to: http://www.results.invictusgames2017.com, click on a sport and follow the ‘show events’ link to track the progress of Team U.S. participants.

• Date Taken: 09.27.2017
• Date Posted: 09.27.2017 19:41
• Story ID: 249855
• Location: TORONTO, ON, CA