4 Team River Runner Athletes Compete in The Invictus Games

Invictus is a latin word defined as unconquered or invincible. How fitting a title for a sporting event welcoming wounded, ill and injured service members from different countries. Inspired by the warrior games, Great Britain’s Prince Harry created the first Invictus games in 2014 which took place in London.

The Invictus games is an awe inspiring event showcasing the sacrifices these outstanding men and women have made for their countries and their drive to overcome their challenges.This year the Invictus games welcomed 15 teams of warriors from around the world to Orlando, FL. For 5 days, these incredible men and women competed in a variety of sports ranging from wheelchair rugby to sitting volleyball.

Team River Runner is proud that 4 of our athletes took place in these games, representing team USA in several different sports!

Ryan Major, Sgt. US Army 

Ryan has been paddling with TRR for years. He guides blind veterans in whitewater, acts as a TRR Ambassador, helps with National Programs, and has developed into an accomplished whitewater kayaker!!

Ryan’s Events: 

Wheel Chair Rugby, Results

Track & Field, Results

Indoor Rowing, Results

Cycling, Results

Power Lifting, Story

Robert Brown, S SGT US Army

Rob Brown is a TRR World Champion (Bronze Medal in Paralympic Sprint Kayaking!). Rob was on the first TRR Veterans kayak trip down the mighty Colorado river of the Grand Canyon-leading the way on many of the rapids!. Rob currently trains in the US Army World Class Athlete Program and is the top Military Paralympic Sprinter in the nation!

Rob’s Event: 

Track & Field, Results

Invictus Games Orlando 2016 Video Featuring Team USA Competitors from Invictus Games on Vimeo.

Stefan Leroy, Sgt. US Army

Stefan has participated with TRR on the chapter side at Walter Reed and also attended one of our National Leadership Clinics. Stefan is a gifted athlete in many sports and an excellent Ambassador for adaptive sports.

Stefan’s Events: 

Swimming, Results

Track & Field, Results

Cycling, Results

Indoor Rowing, Results

Sitting Volleyball, Results

 

Invictus Games 2016 Video – The Strength from Invictus Games on Vimeo.

Tim Payne, Staff Sgt. US Army

Tim participated in TRR’s first appearance in the St. John USVI Beaches to Beaches Power Swim in 2015. He won his class in the 3 1/2 mile open water swim! A powerful athlete, Tim continues to outswim most in his class!

Tim’s Events: 

Swimming, Results

Track & Field, Results

 

Vanessa Jones

Committe Co-Chair

Vanessa A. Jones is a dynamic force dedicated to fostering
inclusivity, encouraging discussion, and promoting a culture of
belonging in the outdoor sports community. Hailing from
Washington, DC, she brings a wealth of diverse experiences and
perspectives to her endeavors.
As a US Army veteran and ordained Chaplain with a focus on
seniors and caretakers, Vanessa is deeply committed to serving
others. Her work as a patient-caretaker advocate reflects her
passion for supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring their
voices are heard.
Currently, Vanessa is employed by a resettlement agency, where
she confronts challenges head-on with resilience and
compassion. As a single, Black woman veteran, she embraces
the unique hurdles she faces, viewing them as opportunities for
growth and empowerment.
In her downtime, she wears many hats, including that of a
missionary, spreading hope and positivity wherever she goes.
Weekends are spent paddling, immersing herself in West African
dance and finding solace and joy in nature’s embrace.
Vanessa is committed to equitable principles, ensuring that
everyone’s opinions are valued and heard. Through her
unwavering dedication and inclusive leadership, Vanessa is
paving the way for a more equitable and diverse outdoor sports
landscape.