Ukrainian veteran Yaroslav Sharkiy will represent Ukraine at the «Invictus Games» in Canada. He told «FAKTY» about what saved his life and his athletic opportunities.
Yaroslav Sharkiy is a true example of courage and perseverance. The 34-year-old veteran from Ukraine has been through a lot, from serving in the military to surviving a serious injury. But despite all the challenges he has faced, Sharkiy has not let anything stop him from pursuing his dreams.
Sharkiy joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2004 and served for 10 years. In 2014, he was deployed to the eastern region of Ukraine to defend the country against Russian aggression. During a combat mission, he was severely injured and had to undergo multiple surgeries to save his leg. Despite the physical and emotional trauma, Sharkiy never gave up.
After his recovery, Sharkiy discovered a new passion: adaptive sports. He found solace and strength in sports, and it became an important part of his rehabilitation process. Sharkiy started training in para-athletics, para-cycling, and para-swimming, and his hard work paid off when he qualified to represent Ukraine at the Invictus Games in Canada.
The Invictus Games is an international adaptive sports competition for wounded, injured, or sick service members and veterans. It was created by Prince Harry of Wales in 2014, and the name «Invictus» means «unconquered» in Latin. The games aim to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation, and promote understanding and respect for those who have served their countries.
Sharkiy will be competing in the para-athletics events at the Invictus Games, and he is determined to make his country proud. In an interview with «FAKTY,» he said, «I am honored to represent Ukraine at the Invictus Games. It is a great opportunity for me to show the world that despite the challenges I have faced, I am still strong and capable of achieving my goals.»
Sharkiy also shared his story of how sports helped him during his recovery. «Sports have given me a purpose and a sense of accomplishment. It has helped me overcome my physical and emotional struggles and has given me a new perspective on life,» he said.
Sharkiy’s participation in the Invictus Games is not only a personal achievement but also a way to raise awareness about the importance of adaptive sports for veterans. He hopes to inspire others who have been through similar experiences to not lose hope and to find strength in sports.
The Ukrainian team at the Invictus Games will be competing in various sports, including wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, and powerlifting. The team is made up of 12 athletes, all of whom have inspiring stories of resilience and determination.
The Invictus Games will take place in Toronto, Canada, from September 23rd to 30th. Sharkiy and his teammates are currently in their final stages of training and are excited to represent Ukraine on the international stage.
Sharkiy’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and the strength of the human spirit. Despite the challenges he has faced, he continues to push forward and inspire others with his story. We wish him and the Ukrainian team all the best at the Invictus Games and beyond. Go Team Ukraine!
