Striving for Invictus dream

TASMANIAN multi-sport athlete and former soldier Jarrod Kent knows the determination needed to reach your dreams after life’s lows.

The 34-year-old from Latrobe will put 10 months of training to the test next week when he flies to Sydney for the fourth Invictus Games.

An event founded by Prince Harry for serving and former soldiers, the Invictus Games brings together male and female athletes from 18 countries who have experienced physical, emotional or mental struggles.

Mr Kent, who will compete in powerlifting, swimming, and a number of track and field events during the October 20-27 games, said he was hoping to achieve more than just a medal.

“My mindset of taking home gold won’t stop, but I’m more about trying to encourage and inspire other people to better themselves,” the former member of the 6th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment said. “Because I know what it’s like to be at the bottom and I know what it takes to get back on top.”

Following an injury during a training exercise in 2015, which required 10 surgeries over 14 months, Mr Kent was discharged.

Having played football in the past, Mr Kent said he saw similarities between the fellowship experienced in the sporting arena and the army.

“It’s about having each other’s back,” he said. “The key values of mateship, loyalty, respect and teamwork are there.”

Also competing at the games is fellow Tasmanian and Australian team cocaptain, former navy Able Seaman Matt Brumby, of Devonport.