Invictus Games: Day Six Wrap Up
The true spirit of the Invictus Games shone today when the Australian wheelchair rugby team put aside trans-Tasman rivalry to give NZDF team member George Nepata a moment he’ll never forget.
Mr Nepata is a tetraplegic and said he suddenly found himself with the ball and being pushed from behind and over the tryline — by both teams.
“That’s the ANZAC brotherhood and the Invictus spirit. It was a humbling experience and I’ll never forget it. I thank the Aussie guys and our guys for making that a special moment for myself,” he said.
The New Zealand team brought the packed hall to a standstill at the start of the game with their Invictus haka, and Mr Nepata said the atmosphere was amazing.
“We keep it (the Invictus haka) aside just for the Australian team and the Australian people. We were in a spearhead formation, we were loud and proud and the haka was just tremendous.
The team had five games today, coming away with just one win but gaining valuable experience.
Corporal Tira Kaa, Ben Peckham and Damien Nepata competed in the powerlifting, with Mr Peckham going close to the podium. Unfortunately his 110kg lift which would have earned him bronze was ruled a no lift.
In the evening it was all eyes on the pool as team co-captain Staff Sergeant Gareth Pratt competed in the finals of the 50m backstroke and breaststroke, and the 100m freestyle. He didn’t make the podium but did score some personal bests.
“That was my main goal, to make the finals,” he said.
“Next I’ll put my commitment as the co-captain back into the rest of the team to support them through their events.”
Tomorrow the team competes in archery, and track and field.
View the Facebook gallery of all photos
Throughout the Games the team’s journey can be followed on:
Facebook: @NZInvictusTeam
Instagram: @NZInvictusTeam
Twitter: @nzdefenceforce
