Finalist for Invictus Games

Photo: Glacier Media

Krista Seguin was elated with the announcement Monday that Greater Victoria is one of two finalists in the bid to host the 2022 Invictus Games.

Taking part in the Games was life-changing for her, said the 29-year-old Victoria resident.

The Invictus Games were founded in 2014 by Prince Harry to bring together military personnel who have been injured on duty. Invictus is Latin for “unconquered.”

Seguin said the Games are more than an event for people who are dealing with challenges.

“It’s just the start of everyone’s journey,” she said. “That’s what it’s done for me. It’s let me continue to be part of sports, which used to be a passion of mine before my injury.

“It still is now.”

Seguin, who has a vascular injury to her right leg, has become a coach for sitting volleyball and power lifting.

The other candidate vying to host the Games is Dusseldorf, Germany. The 2022 host city is expected to be announced in November in London, England.

Peter Lawless, chairman of the Victoria Military Sports Society, said the local effort is proceeding well. He said Dominic Reid, CEO of the Invictus Games Foundation, has been touring local venues.

“We kind of have the perfect mix in Victoria — the sport community, the military community and the volunteer community,” said Lawless, who is also vice-president of the Canadian Olympic Committee and former Team Canada head coach for the Invictus Games.

“And that’s what this Games needs, and it’s the perfect size for us.”

The 2022 Invictus Games are expected to attract 500 athletes from 19 countries, along with 1,000 friends and family members. A budget of $39 million was submitted with the bid.