Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Extend Support to Invictus Athletes in Colombia
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle showed their unwavering support for Invictus athletes by visiting the training sessions of Colombia’s Invictus Games team during their recent tour of the country. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex arrived at Bogotá’s Centro de Rehabilitación Inclusiva on August 16, where they met with athletes, local military officials, and Colombian Vice President Francia Márquez, alongside her partner Rafael Yerney Pinillo, the People reported.
During their visit, Meghan was presented with gifts from local artists, including a painting, hand-knitted animals, and a matching beaded necklace and earrings. Prince Harry received a commemorative plaque from the Ministry of National Defense Veterans, in acknowledgment of his pivotal role in founding and supporting the Invictus Games, an international adaptive sports event for wounded, sick, or injured service personnel.
Prince Harry praised the unity of the athletes, remarking, "It’s amazing to see how many people can come together to form one team," while Meghan echoed his sentiment, saying, "They are all so incredible to watch." Harry even participated in a volleyball match alongside Pinillo, with Meghan and Márquez cheering from the sidelines.
In their downtime, Harry and Meghan spoke to the athletes about their rigorous training routines and ways to stay fit. They also toured the facility, which includes a swimming pool, rock climbing wall, gym, and a rehabilitation area. Later, Harry took the time to engage with a group of ecstatic Korean War veterans, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to veterans' causes.
The Colombian team, revered for their spirit and determination, significantly benefitted from Harry's and Meghan's visit. Rosa Sanchez Bermudez, a Colombian Invictus competitor, compared the Games to a family gathering, illustrating the strong emotional bonds fostered through the event. The couple's support did not go unnoticed, especially by the athletes who were training tirelessly for the upcoming competitions.
Harry and Meghan's visit was part of a broader tour initiated by an invitation from Vice President Márquez. The couple’s itinerary included interactions focused on their charity work with the Archewell Foundation and initiatives like promoting digital safety and mental health. Following their activities in Bogotá, they plan to extend their journey to other cities including Cartagena and Cali, to further their charitable endeavors.
Overall, their meaningful engagement in Colombia highlighted Harry and Meghan's dedication to creating a positive, supportive atmosphere for wounded and recovering veterans, marking yet another notable contribution to their long history of charitable work.
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