It's the penultimate day of Invictus Games 2023, and as one would expect it's off to a roaring start. I'm excited to share the day's action thus far and catch up on several other updates of interest.
The Duke and Duchess had the opportunity to spend the morning at Invictus village and it was filled with beautiful moments.
I'm quite certain there is no other way Prince Harry would rather be spending his 39th birthday than cheering on athletes, meeting families and sitting in the stands.
It's been an incredible week of sporting and personal achievement on so many levels.
Don't think for one second the athletes and their families were going to let him forget his special day.
From all of us at the @InvictusGamesDE, a heartfelt HAPPY BIRTHDAY to the founder and patron of @WeAreInvictus, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex 💛 You've given hope, inspired millions and never stop putting a smile on peoples faces 🫡 pic.twitter.com/ibbTuURDEj
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 15, 2023
Listen to this...
Ma journée commence bien 💓
— barbara (@Chloeska) September 15, 2023
“Bonne anniversaire, Happy birthday “ pic.twitter.com/RlHDeKoGrC
A gorgeous birthday cake from the Mayor of Dusseldorf.
The Mayor of Düsseldorf gifted Prince Harry with an Invictus-themed birthday cake 🥹 #HappyBirthdayPrinceHarry pic.twitter.com/Wh8wV42kmT
— Dani 💛❤️🖤 (@ArchLiliHazMeg) September 15, 2023
The Duke and Duchess pass by with photographer Chris Jackson accompanying them.
exceptionally coming back on here to share with you all that I saw Meghan and told her that I loved her! 🥺 pic.twitter.com/Gf70JGn1fI
— len (@divinelfy) September 15, 2023
'Harry is lifting the daughter of UK cyclist champion, David Jarvis, over a barrier so she can be reunited with her dad and see his gold medal up close. The little girl Sophia is with her mum Stephanie Jarvis, who is also coincidentally celebrating her birthday today.
Stephanie's admitted she thought David had forgotten her birthday, but he's just gifting her a silver love heart pendant necklace now.
"As a child, I joked that I should be a Princess because we share a birthday," Stephanie tells HELLO!
Speaking of her husband's win, she says: "This is David's sport. I knew he'd be strong. But for him to go and win gold and get the fastest time overall, it's incredible. I'm so emotional. I'm just really proud of him."'
A strong contender for moment of the day.
Sweet moment for David Jarvis of Team UK. He won🥇in the IRB3(M) Time Trial but the best prize was the hugs from his family. The only Scottish man on the team left the race wrapped in his country’s flag. #IG23 #InvictusGames
— R.S. Locke / Royal Suitor (@royal_suitor) September 15, 2023
pic.twitter.com/FzlOvk2sGO
More on Team UK's David and his journey before his triumphant win today:
'David Jarvis, 40, was medically discharged from the army last year due to knee injuries. The former staff sergeant was in the force for more than two decades, before his discharge last January.
Mr Jarvis said: “I was medically discharged in January last year, it was quite a shock to start with. “It’s been a case of getting used to a new way of life. I’m still getting used to it. I think one of the issues was there’s always a goal when you’re in the military. When I got the medical discharge, everything just kind of imploded on itself.”
Mr Jarvis has been given a new focus, after being the only person living in the north-east to be selected for the Invictus Games.'
The Duke and Duchess had the opportunity to present Danish veteran Kasper Holm Henriksen with his silver medal in cycling.
Denmark's team is solely comprised of veterans who are all living with PTSD. A stark reminder that injuries both visible and invisible are at the heart of Invictus.
Kasper featured on the recent Netflix documentary of the games, and the pain he is living with was evident in his eyes as he spoke. He opened up candidly about his divorce, not seeing his daughters as much as he would like, and making excuses to avoid seeing loved ones.
It is an ongoing battle for Kasper and all participants. I hope today's win shows him how much he can achieve and more importantly how much love and support there is from the Invictus family.
The couple had the opportunity to spend time with several adorable furry friends.
I think they would love nothing more than to bring this pup home :)
"One more addition to the family?"
The Duchess meets and hugs a volunteer.
Schoolchildren line a section of Invictus village.
Meghan signs a message board of support.
Meghan hugs Katrina Brown of Team UK -- Silver Medallist at the Women's Cycling.
More on Katrina's story from BBC News:
'Ms Brown, a former combat medical technician who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, said training had given her confidence physically and mentally.
"It's the difference between surviving and thriving," she said.
The 40-year-old was taken ill after a military tour of Basra in 2004, and was subsequently diagnosed with Scleroderma - a rare auto-immune disease which hardens soft tissue and can cause fibrosis.
She says training for the games has helped improve her health: "I went from spending 20 hours a day sat down and not being able to enjoy anything because of pain."
With members of Team Australia.
Harry and Meghan met as many people as they could during the visit.
And took the opportunity to say thank you to all who dedicate their time.
Saying hello to well-wishers.
There were more than a few selfie requests.
Audible cheers filled Invictus village.
Harry and Meghan leaving archery and being greeted by fans outside 😍
— ♡ (@latteIicious) September 15, 2023
🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽 #IG23 pic.twitter.com/BbRvI5bgIT
Another view (there were some very excited people in the village today :).
The crowds were insane pic.twitter.com/BKt6nsz5Hd
— Katerina🇺🇦 (@Le__Katerina) September 15, 2023
Taking their seats in the arena.
A very sweet moment.
People writes: "To mark the special occasion, competitors and spectators at the sitting volleyball game between Poland and Germany serenaded Harry with a rendition of 'Happy Birthday.' Prince Harry clearly enjoyed the affectionate welcome from the crowd, giving a thumbs up as Meghan, 42, leaned into him with a smile."
A lovely happy birthday from the crowd watching sitting volleyball. Prince Harry, who turns 39 today, appears to be part of a birthday trio all celebrating. #InvictusGames #IG23 #HappyBirthdayPrinceHarry
— R.S. Locke / Royal Suitor (@royal_suitor) September 15, 2023
pic.twitter.com/HxD8vNvp7v
A gift and birthday wishes from Team Poland.
A gift and birthday wishes for Prince Harry from Poland’s sitting volleyball team. #InvictusGames #IG23 #HappyBirthdayPrinceHarry pic.twitter.com/wztzjVn9po
— R.S. Locke / Royal Suitor (@royal_suitor) September 15, 2023
Harry feeling just a little shy as he was serenaded again.
Prince Harry felt the Birthday love from Invictus Games #TeamPoland 🇵🇱#HappyBirthdayPrinceHarry pic.twitter.com/vBAyKNZqZh
— Alexis🏅 #InvictusGames (@ArchewellBaby) September 15, 2023
One member of the team took the opportunity to express his gratitude to Harry in a heartfelt moment. He'll receive many greetings today, but this one was particularly special. "Thank you [Prince Harry] so much we appreciate everything you are doing for us, you are a great person. And thank you [ turning to Meghan] for supporting him."
“Thank you [Prince Harry] so much we appreciate everything you are doing for us, you are a great person. And thank you [Meghan] for supporting him” ❤️#InvictusGames #InvictusTeamPoland #HappyBirthdayPrinceHarry pic.twitter.com/A21J2UgEiz
— Anna (@Anna__with_an_A) September 15, 2023
Meghan continued her run of effortlessly chic looks today, reportedly wearing a blazer by Celine.
Meghan's past season ZARA belted playsuit is sold out.
Meghan sported a pair of YSL Tribute sandals. They are available in black and brown here.
The Duchess carried a Crossbody Olive bag by Cesta Collective. Meghan has supported the brand before, and their ethos is incredibly important: "Cesta baskets are handwoven of locally sourced, renewable resources, by talented female artisans in Rwanda, Africa — whom we are proud to pay 500-700% times the national average salary of Rwanda. Each piece is hand finished in Italy with very carefully chosen, sustainable materials." The bag can be purchased in multiple colours here.
For earrings, she selected a pair of Bottega Veneta Chain Hoop earrings. They are in stock here.
And her Brilliant Earth 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Leo Zodiac Pendant.
With thanks to What Meghan Wore, Meghan's Closet Chronicles and Pearl for their ID work.
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I also want to take the opportunity today to catch up on other stories of note.
It's been such a busy week and Harry and Meghan have been keeping a packed schedule with a number of behind-the-scenes events. On Wednesday evening, the Duke and Duchess attended a special evening in the Kids' Zone to spend time with families of the competitors.
This little one made quite the impression during Invictus, appearing to push her dad, a part of Team USA, along.
This little cutie!!! She pushed him around longer than the few seconds I captured. #IG23 #InvictusGames2023 #aHomeForRespect 💛🖤 https://t.co/c4cJGRshKX pic.twitter.com/3LC943Z3Qt
— Sara💭 (@Seraa) September 14, 2023
When Meghan met her, it was time for a hug.
Time for a selfie!
Harry and Meghan have also taken time to meet those involved with Invictus Games Foundation and all the volunteers who do such a splendid job.
It's wonderful to see the level of family involvement across the board.
Meghan wore a white blazer, J Crew sleeveless sweater vest (available here), FRAME jeans and Aquazzura purist pumps.
I also came across several photos of a reunion with Team Netherlands. At The Hague last year, Meghan gave competitor Fenna Geugjes' wife Bertine her coat to keep her baby warm. They had the opportunity to meet the family again today.
Meghan had the opportunity to see Baby Liva again this week.
Last year, Jelle van der Steen of Team Netherlands, a former marine, was absolutely determined to support his teammates despite having an operation just days before. A very moved Prince Harry reached out to grab his hand. Jelle is the embodiment of the Invictus spirit.
It is very fitting to see him again this year.
Harry and Meghan had the opportunity to watch Team UK's Dani Stevens -- who joined Invictus to overcome her fear of water so that she could swim with her baby.
Dani Stevens came to the #InvictusGames to overcome her fear of water so that one day she could swim with her baby boy.
— Invictus Games Foundation 💛🖤+💜 (@WeAreInvictus) September 14, 2023
Thank you Dani for sharing your story with us! 💛🖤 pic.twitter.com/ZIO2oE0Ysy
Team USA competitor Retired Chief Master Sgt. Garrett Kuwada spoke to People:
'Garrett, who made his Invictus debut at the 2022 Games at The Hague, exclusively tells PEOPLE it’s an honor to compete for his country — and a joy to befriend Prince Harry. The veteran chatted with the Duke of Sussex behind the scenes at the big event last year and spent more time with Harry when he went scuba diving in Hawaii (Garrett’s home state) in November. Cameras captured the epic adventure for Heart of Invictus, Netflix’s limited series about competitors from six countries preparing for The Hague tournament.
"That was awesome, just hanging with him on the boat. He’s a veteran, and like all vets, when we get together, we talk, laugh, joke and tease each other. He’s just like one of the guys, it was an amazing experience,” he tells PEOPLE. “He makes you feel like you’ve known him forever."'
Competitor Christian Vega told ABC News about his journey from learning to walk again to competing in Invictus. Kenneth Fisher, CEO of Fisher House Foundation is working closely with Invictus. Ken is on the ground in Dusselforf and said: "What we want to do is also pay tribute to the families who have also served this nation, who bear burdens and make sacrifices that the average American will never understand."
After recovering from a brain aneurysm, an award-winning veteran joins @kyraphillips to talk @WeAreInvictus and @FisherHouseFdtn, where he learned how to walk, talk and regain his inner strength. pic.twitter.com/u4Zkg5KhdB
— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) September 11, 2023
Go behind the scenes of a day in the life of Team UK competitor Richard Potter.
What is it like to be a competitor at the @InvictusGamesDE? 🎽
— Forces News (@ForcesNews) September 14, 2023
See the #InvictusGames like never before – #TeamUK 🇬🇧 sprinter Richard Potter takes us behind the scenes for one unforgettable day 🥇
Get the latest from #IG23 👉 https://t.co/9XJr8hEHXA pic.twitter.com/qNvtdozNlo
Yesterday, Ukrainians asked Harry to sign their flag for a raffle with all donations used to support those on the front line.
Yesterday, Ukrainians asked Harry to sign the flag and promised to raffle it off for donations for Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline. Harry signed it! 🇺🇦 #InvictusGames2023 pic.twitter.com/tb0aELrXQ2
— Katerina🇺🇦 (@Le__Katerina) September 15, 2023
Mental health has been at the very core of Harry's work for almost a decade. Tavis Watt, Team Australia psychologist, remarked "Prince Harry was really interested in the mental health of all of our competitors and the mental health aspect of the games and how sports helps with mental health."
“Prince Harry was really interested in the mental health of all of our competitors and the mental health aspect of the games and how sports helps with mental health.” – Tavis Watt, Team Australia psychologist 💛🖤 #InvictusGames2023 pic.twitter.com/ogmScs5fMu
— Dani 💛❤️🖤 (@ArchLiliHazMeg) September 15, 2023
At Invictus, support works both ways. A lady with Team UK walked over to Meghan yesterday and said despite everything in the media, "Just know we still love you."
Meghan with a British lady yesterday 🥲🤍 🫂
— Katerina🇺🇦 (@Le__Katerina) September 15, 2023
(Does anyone hear what she said?) pic.twitter.com/YtJKVOUZe0
Team Italy's Ottavio Marrobio's story will move you to tears. He's doing this for his daughter Georgia who passed away last year.
At the heart of the games, we witness a strength beyond measure...
— Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 (@InvictusGamesDE) September 14, 2023
Meet Ottavio Marrobio from Team 🇮🇹 , who carries the memory of his beloved daughter. Despite his profound loss, he's here at #AHomeForRespect, reminding us all that love endures and the human spirit can rise even… pic.twitter.com/P0eSuZQoLK
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Yesterday evening, Harry enjoyed a lovely pre-birthday dinner with Meghan and the Archewell team -- a "family meal" -- at popular central Dusseldorf eatery 'Im Goldenen Kessel'. The couple posed for a photo with delighted staff, who described the Duke and Duchess as "lovely".
Sharing details, Hello! revealed:
'Restaurant owner Thea Ungermann added: "The couple were very relaxed, they drank our beer, Schumacher Alt - it's the same beer they are serving at the Invictus Games. Harry and Meghan sat next to each other during the meal. I had goosebumps when they walked into the restaurant, I had watched his speech on the stage at the Invictus Games and couldn't believe he was in my restaurant. Prince Harry was so lovely and gave me a hug."
A source said: "It had a very joyful family meal feel. It's the first night that Harry and Meghan have eaten outside of the hotel restaurant so it was a great experience. They always eat with their team but tonight was a special evening."'
According to reports, the group enjoyed beers and local delicacies including red cabbage, mashed potatoes and Wiener schnitzel, with the owner noting: "Harry was very generous and tipped very well." Chris Sanchez, former Secret Service bodyguard, is part of Harry and Meghan's private protection team and he joked with the owners about the beer. The group took up two tables; it sounds like a very laid back night.
Hello!'s reporter Isabelle Carey actually bumped into the group departing.
'After a long day in the sunshine I was strolling back to my hotel when I had to do a double take because, yes, I saw Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wandering the cobbled streets of Dusseldorf after his birthday dinner on Thursday evening.
The royal couple and their Archewell family were out celebrating the Duke's big day just minutes away from where I have been staying in the heart of the city. I could not believe my eyes when they strolled past - I mean the police officers were a bit of a giveaway, but colour me shocked with a capital 's.'
During the meal, Harry was reportedly treated to a white chocolate cake. Apparently, Harry and Meghan dine with their team at the hotel every night, but this was extra special, with the opportunity to mark Harry's birthday.
Harry & Meghan strolling through Düsseldorf last night where they had an early birthday dinner with their team.
— R.S. Locke / Royal Suitor (@royal_suitor) September 15, 2023
pic.twitter.com/wAJBwEuNSl
Back at the Hyatt Regency hotel just before midnight, aides, joined by Meghan, performed a rendition of 'Happy Birthday' for the Prince.
The hotel offers a panoramic view of Dusseldorf and the Rhine. It's understood the Sussexes are staying in the Presidential Suite.
Several team members working on Invictus have been with the couple for years, including those who worked for Harry, and then Meghan, at Kensington Palace. James Holt, Archewell executive director moved to the United States from London to work with the couple. Whilst Clara Loughran and Beth Herlihy run their own firm in the UK, they still work closely with the Duke and Duchess and have been visible faces throughout every day of Invictus. Below, Beth with Meghan yesterday. She was the Duchess' assistant private secretary at KP, and today also serves as an expert adviser for Solace Women's Aid.
Clara Loughran was actually involved in the Invictus Games during its inception back in 2014, and was a regular face during many of the couple's engagements, playing a vital role in the planning of the royal wedding. It's nice to see familiar faces and I'm sure a bonus for Harry to have the team there for both the games and his birthday.
For the dinner, Meghan's off-duty look was chic and relaxed. She wore the sold out DOEN Hava Monaco stripe shirt. It remains available in blue stripe here.
Meghan teamed the shirt with her cropped white skinny FRAME jeans and a pair of Manolo Blahnik Ballerimu suede bow ballerina flats (with thanks to Pearl).
With thanks to Pearl, Meghan carried the Cuyana Paloma Shoulder bag (available here).
Sending Prince Harry the happiest of birthday wishes. I know it's a fantastic day, and in fact, make that a fantastic week :)
In celebration of the Harry's and Meghan's birthdays, members of the Sussex Squad have raised over $50,000 for Sentebale. If you would like to donate (today is the last opportunity to do so), please click here.
I'll see you later for this evening's events.
Just a fun birthday for Harry! I'm so glad he's been shown so much appreciation! And what a kind thing for that woman to share with Meghan. It's true, so many of us love her despite the hateful rhetoric spread by tabloid media.
ReplyDeleteKatrina Brown, UK Invictus member, said, “It's the difference between surviving and thriving.”
ReplyDeleteThat said it all.
Loving your coverage of the Invictus families Charlotte. The spontaneity of the many scenes in these videos really emphasize family and community here.
The video of the little girl pushing her dad, who’s in a wheelchair and a US Invictus member, around was touching and beyond cute.
My daughter also texted me that her friend showed her that photo of Meghan wearing the same type of Zara playsuit she wears. Lol.
Finally, Happy Birthday Harry!
-best wishes to all of you from the PNW
I'm impressed that she wears so many flat shoes. I can relate very well because I also wear only flats. My feet hurt too much after wearing high heels.
ReplyDeleteSorry, I forgot: thank you for your extensive coverage of the Invictus Games, Charlotte. The big local newspaper of Düsseldorf ("Rheinische Post") which is not tabloid press just covers the personal infos about Harry and Meghan and reports from the opening and final shows. In their online sports section you can't find anything about the athletic achievements of the participants and their background which I find quite disappointing. I'm afraid in modern sports business only the exceptional performances of healthy people are interesting...
ReplyDeleteA wonderful day! I just love Meghan in her cute and practical outfit (my favorite so far) with her wonderful flat shoes. And Harry's fun birthday!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Charlotte for the extensive coverage of Invictus. it really is such a joy to see them so happy and enjoying this week. it's also incredibly moving to read all the stories of the athletes and their families. :)
ReplyDeleteAdditionally, I was wondering, since you're doing some additional work of what Harry is up to, if you'd consider re-naming the blog from Mad About Meghan to something that encompasses both Harry & Meghan and the important work they both do. Just a thought. :)
Cheers!
Philly here. I have felt the same way for some time. Perhaps something Sussex. Especially since there are too many who have tainted the word "mad" with their anger, racism and abuse. How do the readers feel? I'd be game for a poll and a renaming contest.
DeleteWhat a wonderful week! Bravo to Harry for starting and continuing Invictus. A small favor- would it be possible for you to do a summary post of all M’s outfits? Would really like a closer look at her inimitable modern style.
ReplyDeleteThank you for curating this lovely photo-feast, Charlotte. It's much appreciated.
ReplyDeleteWhat an incredible week! Thank you for your coverage, Charlotte. Emotions have been so high all week watching these incredible heroes, many of whose lives have been saved by these games. What a joyful week for all participants and their families.
ReplyDeleteIt's wonderful to see interest in these games spreading to more countries, and to see so many from NATO attending and meeting with Harry. I'm so proud of him and delighted for him.
My greatest reward was seeing Meghan happy, relaxed, beautiful and in love. Congratulations to her for ignoring and rising above the vitriol directed at her daily. It warmed my heart to see how much she is loved by everyone there. She and Harry have a magical magnetism. They are so in sync. They were clearing made for each other. Their love is palpable. Everyone is drawn to it and to them, including me.
After such a long time not seeing Meghan, this was a full meal.
R
Wow!!! Just ...wow! Thank you so much Charlotte, for the excellent coverage of the Invictus games, all the participants and their families, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and all their teams. As a sister of a Canadian veteran who saw tours in Boznia, Somalia, twice in Afghanistan and the resulting ptsd that he suffered through, its been a first hand look at the toll it took on his life and all of the rest of the vets world wide. I can't applaud Prince Harry enough for starting the whole ball rolling for these games. It comes from his heart and everyone one of those participants funnels the joy, excitement and hope right into theirs. I loved the words the Polish man spoke, thanking Meaghan for supporting and aiding her husband . The cheers, applause, laughter and joy from the whole stadium towards Harry and Meaghan really puts paid to the toxicity that continues to come from certain media outlets. I hope they are absorbing all the love and ignoring the peanut gallery. :) Loved all of their outfits, the elegant casual looks that totally worked all week long. I can hardly wait till the games come to Canada.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Prince Harry x
ReplyDeleteThis is a day that will remain marked in Harry's heart; a day which will be able to alleviate a little these periods when his birthday fell at the time of great periods of sadness like after the deaths of his mother and his grandmother... I don't have the words to express all the emotion which invaded me while reading this beautiful article presenting us the strong stories of Georgia and her dad, that of Jelle and others...I imagine that all these beautiful people at Invictus must have felt 1000 times what I feel: c It's so moving and beautiful. Big BRAVO💞
ReplyDeleteMeghan looks cute in this outfit. I saw that Angela Levin said on GB News Meghan looked ridiculous in the shorts. She looks stunning. I guess Angela is jealous clearly how Meghan is totally radiant. I am glad to see Harry had a spectacular birthday celebrating these amazing men and women who are true heroes. I am so sad his father and brother in the royal family didn't wish him a public happy bday. They will regret this all in years to come. I know how short life is having lost both my parents wish this feud didn't exist especially when Harry is doing such amazing things here at Invictus. The royals used to support invictus wholeheartedly and now didn't even mention it... even if mad at Harry they should of to recognize these amazing men and women participants!
ReplyDeleteMelissa, The UK royal family has proven that royal life is not a fairy tale. Inspite of their titles they are just humans. I myself was in a toxic environment at work and sadly had to leave because of that. I have found a new job that pays me less than my previous job but at least I am in a good place now. Just be glad Harry & Meghan and their children are happy now; nothing else matters.
Delete