The inclusion of winter sports in this year’s Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 was an exciting surprise for many Team Australia competitors. Among them was Jamie Smyth, who had never set foot on snow until last year’s Winter Training Camp. Now, on Day 4 of the Games, Jamie took on the challenge of alpine skiing, proving just how far determination and adaptive sport can take a competitor. 

A Leap into the Unknown 

“Being in Canada, I thought it would be a missed opportunity not to get on the slopes and enjoy the snow. I had to do something snow-related,” Jamie said. 

The Winter Training Camp marked Jamie’s first experience with snow, and while skiing was initially a challenge, he quickly adapted. “Being on skis felt different. Trying to coordinate on the snow was difficult at first, but I got there in the end. The coaches were very knowledgeable and made learning easy for a novice like myself. There were also many other competitors who had experience and were willing to help.” 

A Bonded Team 

The camaraderie among Team Australia’s snow sport competitors has been a defining feature of their journey. “The group has become quite close through all the preparation camps. Everyone is supportive. Those who attended the Winter Training Camp were helpful in guiding those of us who hadn’t been to the snow before, sharing their knowledge and skills.” 

For Jamie, beyond the competition itself, simply being in the snow is a dream come true. “I’ve always wanted to see snow, so having the chance not only to see it but to compete on it in the green and gold is very rewarding.” 

Day 4: A blue bird day on the slopes for alpine skiers and snowboarders

For Jamie, it was only the second time he had skied on the snow, and crossing the finish line brought a sense of relief. “I was glad to stay up on my feet the whole time and cross the finish line,” he said. “Hearing the crowd cheer was such a rush—it was good fun out there!” 

With the crowd cheering loudly from the sidelines, Jamie shared how much they energised him during the competition – “hearing the crowd cheer was such a rush—it was good fun out there!” He also shared how important it is to have the support of his family right here in Canada – “it’s fantastic to have them here. They are my biggest supporters, and I’m glad they can witness and experience it all with me.” 

Day 4 saw Jo Lovell, Jamie Smyth, and SGT Emily Lahey carving their way down the slopes in the alpine skiing competition. With impressive runs and solid turns, all three competitors showcased their skills and determination on the course.

Next up was snowboarding, where LS Chris Hill, Jake Christie, and Chelsie Clayton took to the terrain with style. From carving sharp edges to nailing clean runs, they showed remarkable control and agility on the board. Their confidence on the slopes was matched by the roar of the crowd as they raced down the mountain.

With strong performances across the board, Team Australia continues to make their mark on the first ever Hybrid-Winter Games.

Looking Beyond the Games 

While Jamie embraced alpine skiing for the Invictus Games, his love for adaptive sport began in 2021 when he took up wheelchair AFL. “After the Games, I’ll continue playing for Norwood Football Club’s wheelchair football team (AFL), aiming to compete in the national carnival again. It will be a great chance to get back out there and stay active through sport.” 

From first-time skier to international competitor, Jamie’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, teamwork, and the unbreakable Invictus spirit. 

Keep up to date with all the action

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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.