Danny giles
Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 Competitor
ADF service: I joined the Australian Army in August 1997, signing up to be an Infantry Soldier. First posting was to 2RAR, Townsville in 1998. I did 2 tours of East Timor. I posted to 4RAR in 2002 and completed Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) selection course in 2004, subsequently going on and having a 20-year career in the regiment. I have done multiple tours to the Middle East during my time and was medically discharged from service in 2024.
Other information: I’m married to my beautiful and supportive wife, Rachel, and have 3 talented kids, Lachlan (13), Matilda (11), and Oscar (6).
Age: 45
Hometown: Darwin, NT
Current town: Perth, WA
Competing in: Biathlon, indoor rowing and sitting volleyball.
What is the nature of your injury or illness? I have sustained many long-term physical injuries and suffer from chronic pain due to my service.
Sport background: I played all sports as a kid, enjoyed competing in team sports and being with my mates. Aussie rules and cricket were my faves during my high school days.
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? It has allowed me to participate in the sporting arena again after a long time missing out due to service. It will give me goals and focus during my transition out of the ADF.
How did you feel when you were told you made the Invictus Games team? Grateful that I was selected and honoured to compete with other amazing people.
What is your greatest achievement to date? Being a father and husband and serving with SASR.
Why did you apply for Invictus Games? To get back into team sports and try different sports to help with rehabilitation. Also being able to rub shoulders with inspirational people and relate to their journey.
What will ‘winning’ look like for you at the Games? Watching my fellow athletes compete together with a smile on their faces.
Who is supporting you at the Games? My wife and 3 kids.
Only 50 DAYS TO GO until @invictusgames25 kicks off in Vancouver Whistler!
Team Australia have been busy putting the finishing touches on their training ahead of competition in Canada!
Not long now! Drop the team some words of encouragement in the comments. 💛🖤
@weareinvictusgames
We partner with @sportsadf to deliver Team Australia to the Invictus Games.
In an Invictus Games first, veterans will compete in winter sports at the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. Hear from Invictus Games alumni and Para Athlete Matt Brumby as he introduces us to Nordic Skiing and Biathlon.
Nordic Skiing challenges competitors to race across rugged terrain using classic skiing techniques, showcasing their stamina and mental toughness in this test of endurance. Split between novices and advance skiers, competitors will race between 750m to 1500m.
The Biathlon adds a twist, combining the physical demands of cross-country skiing with the precision of target shooting, where competitors will use electronic shooting systems to test their focus to hit every mark.
@matty.brumby
#nordicskiing #biathlon #unconqueredtogether #unconquered
Congratulations to those members of Team Veteran who raced at the 2024 ACT Veterans Indoor Rowing in Shoalhaven, NSW earlier this month.
Veteran Engagement Coordinator Megan was on hand cheering on the team, inspired by how close this group have become by participating in regular indoor rowing throughout the year.
"It was amazing to witness the camaraderie, determination, and sheer effort on display."
Our local engagement team facilitates sporting opportunities like this regularly, to find one near you, join your local Facebook group via the link in bio.
#indoorrowing #veteransport #invictusaustralia #invictusaus #supportavetetan #veteransupport