Prince Harry delighted a young Australian child by sharing a dance before embarking on a cruise around Sydney’s famous harbor with Meghan Markle and fans of the Invictus Games. The couple charmed onlookers by posing for photos near the iconic Man O’War steps of the Sydney Opera House before boarding a boat filled with former participants of the biennial sporting event. They were presented with personalized thongs labeled ‘G’day Hazza’ and ‘G’day Megs’ by veteran Joel Vanderzwan.
During the encounter, Harry humorously mentioned that he usually receives “budgie smugglers” from Invictus Australia. They also met Mr. Vanderzwan’s family, including his daughter Charlotte and nine-month-old twin boys named Harrison and William. Meghan mentioned Harry’s twirling skills to Charlotte, prompting the prince to dance with the young girl.
The couple then set sail amidst a media frenzy and a hovering helicopter, marking the conclusion of their Australian visit. The boat they boarded was designed with wheelchair accessibility for wounded veterans. As they cruised the harbor, participants of Invictus Australia shared their experiences of how sports aid in recovery, rehabilitation, and social connection.
Invictus Australia’s CEO, Michael Hartung, highlighted the significance of Harry and Meghan’s return to Sydney Harbor, where sailing first became part of the Invictus movement. The duo’s visit showcased the ongoing support provided to veterans and their families through community-based sports. Harry’s involvement in the Invictus Games stemmed from his visit to the Warrior Games in 2013.
The Invictus Games held in Sydney in 2018 will be followed by the next edition at Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre in July 2027. Harry’s previous visits to Sydney for military training and royal tours were also noted. The Invictus Games, inspired by adaptive sports for wounded servicemen and women, unite competitors from various nations to promote rehabilitation.
The couple’s Australian tour concluded with a memorable cruise, symbolizing their support for the Invictus movement and veterans’ well-being.