Ryan Kelly

Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023 Competitor

ADF service: I joined the Royal Australian Navy in 2001 and have become a Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving Officer. I have seen active service in the Middle East, Solomon Islands as well as Northern Australian waters in border protection.
Most recently I was the Deputy Director in Future Navy Workforce Planning for Mine Warfare and Clearance Diving. I speak fluent Japanese and have been frequently involved in engagements with Japan over the course of my career. I live with my dear partner, Brandi, and our four children, Kai, Quinten, Cameron and Koa. 
 
Age: 40

Home town: Port Macquarie, New South Wales

Current town: Port Macquarie, New South Wales

Competing in: Archery, sitting volleyball and swimming
 
What is the nature of your injury or illness? I suffered a life-altering spinal injury in 2019 while on an overseas operation dealing with unexploded remnants of war. I do my best in dealing with numerous other challenging health conditions.
 
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport has been integral in my rehabilitation, from both a physical and psychological perspective. It serves as an outlet, an escape, as well as being a crucial component in maintaining mobility and functionality. 
 
Sport background I grew up in and around the water. Surfing, swimming, athletics and surf life saving, as well as other team sports. 
 
What is your greatest achievement to date? Becoming a father. 
 
Why did you apply for Invictus Games? I wanted to surround myself with people experiencing similar challenges, to both learn and to potentially help, if able. 
 
What will success look like for you at the Games? Simply participating and feeling the camaraderie through my involvement. The reiteration of the fact ‘it’s not just me’ resonates with me each and every time I hear from one of my fellow team mates. 
 
What does unconquered mean to you? Regardless of what life can throw at us, it is within us to overcome it all.