The wounded veterans and serving personnel of Team UK departed for the Netherlands to compete in the long-awaited Invictus Games in The Hague on 14 April. Competitors, along with their friends and family, travelled to and from The Hague on six accessible coaches operated by Kings Ferry, part of National Express Transport Solutions which is Team UK’s official transport partner.
Ian Fraser, Managing Director South East at National Express Transport Solutions said: “National Express is committed to supporting the Armed Forces Community. We are an official partner of the Royal British Legion and an Armed Forces Covenant signatory. It is wonderful to be able to extend this support by ensuring the Team UK competitors and their friends and family travel safely and comfortably by coach to The Hague. We wish them the best of luck.”
Activity sheets were provided by the operator to keep the many children on board entertained on the long journey, and there was the chance to take part in a photo competition.
Team UK competitors were selected in October 2019 to compete in the May 2020 Invictus Games at The Hague. When the pandemic hit, it was moved to 2021, but uncertainty forced a second postponement. The rearranged event finally took place in The Hague from 16-22 April.
Speaking before departure, RAF veteran Rachel Williamson, Team UK captain, said: “It’s been a long time coming but it’s amazing to be finally heading out to compete at the Invictus Games. At times we didn’t think we’d get there but we’ve all kept up our training and supported each other through the tough moments.
“We’re grateful to those who have supported us on our journey, especially Help for Heroes and the Royal British Legion, and are grateful to National Express Transport Solutions for offering us a comfortable trip to The Hague. We can’t wait to get on our coaches and make our way to the Netherlands.”
The team competed in nine sports: athletics; archery; wheelchair basketball; cycling; powerlifting; indoor rowing; wheelchair rugby; swimming; and sitting volleyball, as well as the Jaguar Land Rover Driving Challenge showcase.
