Anna Meares OAM has been appointed an Ambassador for Invictus Games Sydney 2018.
The retired cycling champion is one of Australia’s most decorated athletes, boasting six Olympic medals, 11 world championships and five Commonwealth Games titles.
“Sport can teach and give so much and offer a unique environment of comradery and inclusion,” said Meares.
In a career that spanned more than 15 years, the popular cyclist also overcame adversity, recovering from an horrific crash in which she suffered a broken neck, to claim an Olympic silver medal seven months later at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
“For our servicemen and women to be able to have a sporting arena like the Invictus Games where they can use sport to heal, re-join with other people through comradery and have that environment of support is really wonderful,” said Meares. “For me to be a part of it I am honoured, truly, truly honoured.”
Patrick Kidd OBE, Chief Executive of Invictus Games Sydney 2018 presented by Jaguar Land Rover, welcomed Meares to the Invictus Games family.
“We are grateful to have Anna Meares with us on our journey to Invictus Games Sydney 2018,” said Kidd.
“Her own experience of overcoming adversity through the healing power of sport is inspirational and is testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
“Together, our mission is to inspire the Australian community to embrace our wounded, injured and ill, their families and friends, and create a positive long-term impact,” he said.