Karl Woodward

Invictus Games Dusseldorf 2023 Competitor

ADF service: I joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 2007 and discharged in 2023. I deployed across the Middle East whilst serving on Operations Slipper and Accordion between 2010-2020. I deployed on Operation Aslan as part of Australia's small contingent to support the United Nations Mission in South Sudan. I was fortunate to travel across Australia, Asia, the United States and New Zealand during my career. 
 
Age: 42 
 
Hometown: Terrigal, New South Wales 
 
Current Town: Terrigal, New South Wales 
 
Competing in: Indoor rowing, swimming and wheelchair rugby
 
What is the nature of your injury or illness? Chronic back pain and mental health.   
 
What role has sport played in your rehabilitation? Sport plays a vital role in my rehabilitation for both my physical and mental injuries. Over the years I have maintained a decent level of fitness, so keeping fit has always been a part of me and never been a problem. Sport is now helping me maintain purpose, focus and discipline in my everyday life; which ultimately helps my rehabilitation during post service life.   
 
Sport background: Before joining the Air Force I was a competitive swimmer for Gosford Stingrays at state and national level. I also competed as a Surf Life Saver in my local branch for the North Avoca Surf Life Saving Club.  Whilst serving I completed at the ADF Water Polo Inter Service Championships, where I represented Far North Queensland and competed in the Air Force Surfing Championships. My biggest achievement in sport has been my recent performance in the 2022 Australian Indoor Rowing Championships where I placed 3rd in the 1000 metres.
 
What is your greatest achievement to date? Serving on the United Nation Mission in South Sudan and serving with the men and women of 77 Squadron as a junior officer between 2011-2013.  
 
Why did you apply for Invictus Games? Ultimately, I wanted to challenge myself during my medical discharge and rehabilitation, reignite my passion for sport and to meet like-minded veterans.  
 
What will success look like for you at the Games? I felt I had already won when I was asked to try out for the Australian Team at the selection camp in 2022. I feel that turning up to train either alone or with fellow Aussie teammates is a win in my book.    
 
What does unconquered mean to you? To never give up, no matter what circumstances I am surrounded by.