Lifechanging games a beacon of hope

The City of Sydney will celebrate the resilience of the defence community and showcase the accessibility of Sydney with its support of the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 which is presented by Jaguar Land Rover.

The Invictus Games is an international sporting event for wounded, injured and ill service men and women, both active duty and veteran. The Games use the healing power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and celebrate the crucial role played by family and friends.

From 20 to 27 October, 500 athletes from 18 nations will compete in 11 medal sports: archery, athletics, indoor rowing, Jaguar Land Rover driving challenge, powerlifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, sailing, swimming, wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis and wheelchair rugby. Games will be held at venues across Greater Sydney including Sydney Olympic Park and in and around Sydney Harbour.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the City fully supports the ethos and values of the Invictus Games movement and the positive impact the Games have on the lives of those competing, their families, friends and the wider community.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for Sydney to help raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and access for people with a disability and those living with mental health issues, and their families and carers," the Lord Mayor said.

"We will be encouraging an atmosphere during the Games where the competitors and their families are valued and respected, and promoting Sydney's inclusivity to a global audience."

The City will provide both cash and in-kind support, including flying banners throughout the city to promote the Games.

"It is tremendously exciting to know that the City of Sydney will be 'flying the flag' in support of Invictus Games Sydney 2018," said CEO Invictus Games Sydney 2018, Patrick Kidd OBE.

"I can think of no better welcome for the incredible competitors from 18 different nations and their families than seeing Sydney bedecked in Invictus Games Sydney 2018 flags and banners; these will help promote the Games right across the City and remind all in the City to support our wounded warriors by buying a ticket and filling the stands during the Games."

The City is investigating opportunities for activities in its community and recreation centres to coincide with the Invictus Games Sydney 2018.

The City will also provide information on how local businesses can welcome competitors, their families and friends, and raise awareness about the importance of accessibility during the Games and beyond.

City of Sydney residents and visitors can enjoy sailing in Farm Cove and cycling at Mrs Macquarie's Chair on the Sunday 21st October. All events can be found here: www.invictusgames2018.org

For media inquiries or images, contact Elaine Kelly, mobile 0477 362 550 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, please contact Anusha Muller. Phone 0408 494 545 or email [email protected]