January 31, the Lithuanian Armed Forces team of wounded/injured/sick servicemembers were farewelled before departing for the international winter Invictus Games taking place in Vancouver, Canada, on February 8-16. This marks the first time that Lithuania joints the prestigious event for wounded military personnel and veterans. It is significant opportunity for Lithuania in both terms athletic and morale terms.
“Brothers-in-arms who sustain injuries while in service for the homeland continue to be a crucial part of the military community, while their reintegration, communication and unity brings inspiration to the general society showing it is possible to prevent defeat and continue pursuing one’s goals no matter the odds,” said Chief of Defence Gen Raimundas Vaikšnoras in the farewell ceremony.
The Lithuanian Armed Forces have validated their readiness and worth to become a part of this unique event and were officially invited to join the Invictus Games and become a part of its community. In 2025 Lithuania will compete against military athletes from other countries in a series of different sports: wheelchair basketball, wheelchair rugby, wheelchair curling, sitting volleyball, swimming, alpine skiing, cross-country skiing/biathlon, skeleton and indoor rowing.
Team Lithuania comprises 10 competitors (injured servicemembers), the team leader, four assistants, two sports instructors, a kinesiotherapist, and a social work manager.
The Invictus Games is an international sports event that enables wounded, injured or sick military personnel to recover through sports and physical activity. 600 military personnel and veterans from 23 different countries will meet in the Invictus Games 2025 to put their physical fitness and stamina to tests in a range of competitive sports events. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, is the Founding Patron of the Invictus Games first held in 2014.
Photo credits: Lithuanian Armed Forces
