Team Australia took the skeleton track head-on flying down the mountain on the first day of skeleton competition, in what was described as a very fast day on the ice. This marked the start of two competition days for the high-speed sliding sport, with four Australian competitors Sean Grimmond, Major Elizabeth Daly, Sue Osborn, and Luke Manhire, all making their mark.

Launching from the push start with explosive power, the Aussies navigated the frozen chute head-first, reaching speeds close to 100km/h and clocking times under 40 seconds. With clean lines and tight aerodynamic form, they embraced the challenge of skeleton, a first-time sport for the Invictus Games’ Hybrid format.

With another day of competition ahead, the next Aussie contingent are set to continue their fearless charge on the ice, proving that resilience and determination know no limits.

Watch the recap of Team Australia’s first day on the skeleton track below.

Utilising Sport to Support Transition: Colin’s Story

Colin’s debut on the skeleton track will be tomorrow and although we’re sure that the track’s treacherous curves and icy speeds will pose a daunting challenge, we know Colin will approach it with the same determination that has characterised his journey. 

The Games were the first time Colin had ever considered taking part in this adrenaline-filled sport. Colin shared, “Before the selection process, I’d really only seen Skeleton at the Olympics and didn’t really know too much about it, but I thought it seemed like one of those sports that are another level of a challenge.”  

Colin’s journey to skeleton began as part of his rehabilitation post service. Suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and multiple musculoskeletal injuries, including cervical and lumbar spondylosis, Colin turned to sports as a crucial component of his recovery. When his friend encouraged him to take a look at the Invictus Games, Colin decided to give it a go. “He knew I was looking for something to work towards post service. I must admit, I tossed it up for a while, but I eventually filled it out to avoid the ‘what ifs”. 

Team Australia: A supportive powerhouse 

Colin was involved in various sports throughout his Navy career, from rugby union, to Aussie rules, water skiing and snowboarding. His involvement in many sports laid the foundation for his competitive spirit, but it was the inclusive and supportive nature of Team Australia that really drew him into applying for the Adaptive Sport Program.

Sport helps you come out of that bubble that you fall into, especially when you have been dealing with some mental health issues and you want to stay in your safety zone.”

Colin Mccallum

Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 TEAM Australia Competitor

Colin continued: “For me, the social and mental support you get through team sport quickly surpasses the physical benefits. For this team, it is not so much about the actual sport, but the supportive nature that we have when we are together. 

Everyone’s on their own journey and everyone’s got their own things that they’re dealing with, but there’s no judgement and everyone’s just so supportive and there for each other.” 

Eyes on the Horizon: Colin’s Future Plans 

As the Games progress, Colin remains focused on enjoying the experience and the connections formed through sport. “Winning, for me, is about being here and setting an example for my children,” he said, whose wife, Kerryn, and two kids, Stephanie and Joshua watched on from the crowd. “The supportive environment of the team and the inclusive nature of the Games have been incredibly uplifting.” 

Beyond the Games: Staying Connected Through Sport 

Post-Games, Colin plans to continue his involvement in sports. He has been connected with Invictus Australia Veteran Engagement Coordinator Megan, since April last year, where he has become a regular indoor rowing participant.  

“I first started going to the local indoor rowing group in Nowra and the inclusive environment, the fact that everyone was so supportive even though I had never really been on a rower, was so welcoming.  

The group spent the time with me to work on my technique and then work on little bits and pieces specific to my form. The positive environment was something I hadn’t been around for a while and it kind of just drew me to it.”  

“Post Games, I will continue going to indoor rowing,” he shared. “Some of us are already talking about the next PanPac Masters Games in 2026 on the Gold Coast, which I would love to be a part of. Staying connected through sport is crucial for my ongoing rehabilitation and mental health.” 

The Invictus Games is an international, adaptive multi-sports competition for serving and former military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service. Team Australia is delivered in partnership between Invictus Australia and the Australian Defence Force, and consists of 33 competitors.  

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Keep up to date with all the action

Read live updates from Canada, get to know Team Australia and learn how to connect through sport in your local community via our Team Australia Invictus Games 2025 hub. Head to the hub below.

Join the Exclusive Team Australia fan club! 

Want behind the scenes access to Team Australia, plus exclusive updates of all things Invictus Games? Join our Broadcast Channel via the Instagram app to cheer on Team Australia from back home, while never missing a minute.  

If you don’t want to miss a moment of the Games, join us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, where our on the ground team will be keeping you up to date on Team Australia. 

About the Invictus Games

The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Invictus Games takes place from the 8th – 16th February in Canada. Invictus Australia, in partnership with the Australian Defence Force, are supporting 33 former and current serving competitors as part of Team Australia.

The Invictus Games is an international adaptive sporting event for serving and former serving military personnel who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their military service. Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, is the Patron of the Invictus Games. The Games uses the healing power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and celebrate the crucial role played by family and friends.

About Invictus Australia: Invictus Australia encourages veterans and their families to connect and engage with their communities through sport. Whether participating or volunteering at grassroots level, to competing internationally at an Invictus or Warrior Games, Invictus Australia leverages the power of sport to proactively foster good health and aid in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration. Invictus Australia promotes the physical, social and emotional benefits of sport for all, and shine a light on the unique needs of younger veterans, particularly the challenges associated with transitioning from military to civilian life.