NZDF team ace ANZAC rugby challenge

NZDF TEAM ACE ANZAC RUGBY CHALLENGE

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) Invictus Games team tested their skills against the Australian Invictus Team in a three day camp before heading to Orlando this week.

The Kiwi Team, made up of 18 current and ex-serving New Zealand Navy, Army, and Air Force personnel, was invited to Brisbane's Gallipoli Barracks for a combined final training camp, with a few challenge matches thrown in.

"It’s been fantastic having our Kiwi brothers and sisters here," said Australian Team Captain Paul Warren. "They're like a second part of our team and we love it," he said.

Several friendly competition games took place over the training camp, and while the Australians took the win over the New Zealanders in wheelchair basketball, the Kiwis defended our national sport with a comprehensive win in wheelchair rugby.

"Being here is both a humbling and a powerful experience," said New Zealand Team Vice Captain, Jason Pore. "The comradeship and connection we share has empowered our team spirit here in Australia but on the field in Orlando, the competition is on!"

Both teams are travelling together to the Invictus Games in Orlando — taking the Anzac Spirit to challenge 500 competitors from 15 countries in a bid to bring back gold.

The Invictus Games provides an international stage that unites wounded, ill and injured Service men and women from around the world. They also enable both active duty personnel and veterans to learn and share through their common experiences.

This year they take place at the ESPN Wide World of Sport Complex, in Orlando Florida from 8-12 May.

The New Zealand Team will compete in nine adaptive sports throughout the four-day event.

The NZDF team is sponsored by the Auckland and Christchurch RSAs, BLK Sport, Fulton Hogan, the OffLimits Trust, and The Fallen Heroes Trust.

Follow the team's journey at Facebook.com/InvictusGamesNZ

ENDS

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