Strength on the World Stage

Jo Lovell’s Invictus Games Journey.

Jo Lovell is a valued member of the Grammar Community. Parent to Jack (Grade 3), we are proud to announce that Jo has been selected to compete in the prestigious 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada. Founded by Prince Harry, the Invictus Games celebrate the strength and determination of wounded, injured, or sick service personnel and veterans through the transformative power of sport.

What is your connection with the Launceston Grammar community?
My son, Jack, is in Grade 3 at Grammar this year. The Grammar community has been very welcoming, and the team environment feels very familiar to me. Grammar has introduced him to a love of learning, and he is thriving now. He is happy, loves his teacher Miss Eastoe, and my husband and I feel that we have made the right decision.

 

What is the nature of your injury or illness?
I have injuries to my neck and both shoulders, which significantly impacts both of my arms.
I also have flying PTSD, after being in two helicopter accidents.

What events are you competing in for the upcoming games?
I’m competing in swimming (one-armed freestyle and backstroke), skiing, skeleton, indoor rowing and curling. Both skiing and skeleton are new for me – I won’t see a skeleton course until I hit Whistler, and we will potentially hit 100km/hr speeds, nothing like a bit of adrenaline! Grammar alumna, Emily Lahey (2009), is on my curling team too which is exciting.

Could you share a memorable moment from your Warrior/Invictus Games journey?
When I got a gold medal at the Warrior Games, because of my shoulder, I wasn’t able to hold the Australian Flag up, so Jack was allowed to come onto the podium during the ceremony and hold it for me. It was amazing for him to experience it with me, seeing all different body types, disabilities, and people just giving life a go. Seeing him experience all of that was worth all the training and pain leading up to it.

What are your hopes for the 2025 Invictus Games? What are you looking forward to?
Taking my family on the journey with me. Allowing them to experience this opportunity too makes it so much more special. I’m looking forward to meeting all the different people from different nations, hearing their stories and how they got to this point too. Also, for Jack to meet all the different competitors too and to see it all for himself – there is nothing better than a lived experience.