Invictus Games is an initiative conceived and patronized by the Duke of Sussex, Harry. IG is not only a sporting competition involving injured soldiers and veterans. Above all, it is an international community that supports its members in the recovery process, shares experiences and strength invictus – the unconquered.
In addition to healthy competition among the athletes, the trip took place in a very friendly atmosphere. Family members were able to accompany the soldiers. In every event, it was clear how important family support is to the athletes. Thanks to the very loud cheering, the Polish armored cavalry soldiers knew they had to give their all. It should be emphasized that the Polish motivational chants were the loudest.
– I prepared for the competition for three years because the 2019 competition was postponed due to the state of epidemic introduced – says Sergeant Rafał Rutkowski. – After submitting the application and being accepted onto the team, we had several training camps where we could train together. I took part in three events at the competition. On the second day, there were athletics events, and I competed in the 1,500-meter race. I managed to finish third in that event. The following day there was a group relay, but we did not manage to reach the podium and finished fourth. The swimming events took place on the fourth day, in three styles. I competed in the breaststroke. I chose this style because it was unique over 50 meters and I knew I could compete for a place on the podium. I succeeded and took third place.
The brigade commander, Colonel Grzegorz Barabieda, rewarded the soldiers with special leave and a discretionary bonus: – Every soldier in the brigade is important to us, but there are outstanding soldiers who, despite their disabilities, pursue their passions by taking part in various competitions and winning medals. Such soldiers must be appreciated.
Senior Corporal Karol Szewczyk:
I received an offer from the national team coach, and later from the Invictus sitting volleyball coach. Since 2021, I have attended four training camps; despite our differences, we formed a well-coordinated team from the beginning. I have been training in sitting volleyball for six years, on a team in the town where I live. Going to the competition, we were aiming for gold. Because we were well prepared and had the right attitude, we achieved results – we reached the semifinals, playing against the United States team and winning that match.
He adds:
We played the final against the Georgian team. We managed to win that match as well, without losing a single set. We took the coveted first place on the podium. After every match, we thanked our opponents with loud applause, and this Invictus attitude was appreciated by the audience and athletes from other national teams.
Athletes can participate in the Invictus Games twice, so in the future our armored cavalry soldiers will also have the opportunity to prove themselves and return with medals.