There’s a lot more to the Invictus Games Sydney 2018 presented by Jaguar Land Rover than sport.
As if there were not enough tears and raw emotion over the last eight days at Olympic Park, one of the competitors threw in a wedding.
At the last minute, with the help of friends, Invictus Games Sydney 2018 competitor Dean Irvine of Canada and partner Gailynne Irvine renewed their vows at Invictus Games House at Sydney Olympic Park.
Dean suffered a traumatic brain injury and could not remember his wedding, despite being married for 18 years.
While chatting with his mates at the Invictus Games, he mentioned he would like to renew his vows and marry Gailynne again so he could have a fresh new memory.
“I will definitely remember this one,” Dean said.
“Our family right now is unconquered.”
Tears flowed as Dean’s and Gailynne’s family and friends were in attendance when the ceremony was performed by Padre Frank Lanford.
They were able to gather the traditional wedding attire by wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and even something blue when her best friend lent her a blue koala pin.
Gailynne summed it up by saying a passionate “I love ya!” after the vows were renewed.
They are not the only ones to have acted on renewing or making long-term commitments during these Invictus Games.
Team Australia swimmer Dean Knobel followed a medal ceremony he was in with a marriage proposal in front of the crowd at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, which produced a big roar when they learned Rachel Wilson said yes.
Lila Murgatroyd
Invictus Games Sydney 2018