What are the Invictus Games?

From the 2010 Olympics to the recent Grey Cup festivities and Tay-Couver takeover for the Eras Tour wrap-up, it seems like our ‘no fun’ dubbed city is turning over a new leaf.

The Invictus Games will be held in Vancouver and Whistler between February 8th and 16th. 550 athletes from 25 nations will come to the West Coast to compete in various sporting events, including winter favourites like snowboarding and skiing, biathlon, skeleton, and more. Alongside the winter-centred events are rugby, swimming, and wheelchair basketball.

Royal beginnings

However, the Invictus Games have an intriguing history that starts with their concept, which was initiated by former Vancouver resident Prince Harry.

In 2013, Prince Harry found inspiration at the Warrior Games as he witnessed the community and empowerment sports brought to those who were socially, psychologically, and physically wounded. The chosen name, the Latin word ‘Invictus,’ references the unconquered spirit of those who have been ill or injured, moving forward with tenacity.

Since 2014, the Invictus Games have inspired thousands through the fighting spirit and sense of community these events bring.

How are the games supported?

Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) describes how the occasion aligns with VAC's values through advocacy for veterans in rehabilitation and support for veterans in employment and mental health.

Similar to the Olympics, the Invictus Games choose host cities through bids. In 2022, Canada was selected through the support and collaboration of the Four Host Nations (FHFN), which represents the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam), and Lil̓wat7úl (Lil’wat) nations, as well as the True Patriot Love Foundation. The Federal and the B.C. governments are supporting the games with $15 million, which is not-for-profit.

Participation from the Soldier On program, the Canadian Armed Forces Transition Group (CAFTG), and Team Canada are also present at the games.

These groups have advocated for the games as they provide various resources and opportunities for recovering and injured veterans.

Home turf

Beyond the sporting, the Invictus Games is bringing the party to Vancouver, as various talents are coming to our rainy city to participate in the festivities.

Headliners, including busy head Noah Kahan, B.C. local Nelly Furtado, and Quebec sensation Roxane Bruneau, will start the fun with the Opening Ceremony.

One wonders how Vancouver and Whistler will jump into the Invictus spirit. As mentioned earlier, we saw firsthand how the city cranked up the party at previous events. Hopefully, we will see the same levels of creativity and fun present, with local businesses joining the celebration. This may be Vancouver's glow-up era when it comes to our reputation. No fun city, no more!

Tickets to the opening ceremony are available for purchase on Ticketmaster.