A Front-Row Seat to Resilience: BMO’s Gift to Canadian Armed Forces Members
Vancouver, BC, February 4, 2025 – The countdown to the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 has officially begun, and anticipation is building for what promises to be a life-changing event. Hundreds of competitors from around the world, along with their families, friends and supporters will gather shortly to witness the unifying power of sport firsthand.
With 23 nations competing for gold, including host nation Team Canada, the Games promise a week of unforgettable memories that will last long after the last medal is awarded. Fans can look forward to inspiring performances from reigning champions, silver and bronze medalists, and first-time contenders. Yet, the competition represents much more; it provides a platform for personal healing, growth, and the chance to redefine what’s possible.
As we look ahead, remarkable stories of perseverance and determination continue to emerge from competitors, their families, and supporters worldwide. For participants, it’s a time to rediscover their strength, reshape their identities, and envision life beyond their injuries. For the families and supporters, it’s an opportunity to stand alongside these resilient individuals and draw inspiration from their recovery journeys. These stories reflect the heart of the Invictus Spirit: a reminder of what can be achieved when united by a shared purpose.
Championing the Invictus Spirit
As the Official Bank of the Canadian Defence Community and Gold Sponsor of the Games, BMO is proud to provide 150 tickets to the Opening and Closing Ceremonies to members of Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). Through this sponsorship, BMO is ensuring CAF members can take part in these moments of pride, celebration and community with all in attendance. Whether cheering for Team Canada or connecting with others in the crowds, all attendees will have the chance to witness the power of sport in overcoming adversity and share in the unity that defines the Invictus Games.
“Supporting the defence community is an incredible privilege,” says Gayle Ramsay, Head of Everyday Banking, Segment and Customer Growth at BMO. “As the Official Bank of the Canadian Defence Community, BMO is honoured to provide Canadian Armed Forces with the opportunity to experience the Invictus Games ceremonies. These competitors inspire us with resilience and determination, and the Games serve as a reminder of the healing and unifying power of sports.”
Through the Canadian Defence Community Banking Program, BMO offers specialized banking services that cater to the unique needs of regular force personnel, reserves, recruits, military families, Veterans and retirees as well as Department of National Defence and Staff of the Non-Public Funds civilian personnel, the RCMP and the Canadian Coast Guard. These services are meant to provide military families the tools they need to achieve their financial goals – whether it’s buying a home, saving for the future or managing the complexities of life in uniform.
Beyond financial solutions, BMO’s ongoing support reinforces the sense of belonging for military families to ensure they’re connected and supported by a broader community in all aspects of their lives. By understanding the demands of military life, BMO has become a trusted partner, offering peace of mind and support that extends beyond financial well-being for those who’ve dedicated their lives to serving our country.
Volunteers in BMO Blue
A dedicated team of over 125 BMO volunteers will play a central role at the event, proudly wearing BMO blue to showcase their Invictus Spirit. Reflecting the spirit of the I AM Campaign, these volunteers will be there to welcome attendees, cheer in the stands, and support the Invictus community in every way possible.
“Our volunteers embody BMO’s Purpose, to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life,” says James Kitamura, Regional President, Personal Banking, B.C. & Yukon Region at BMO. “The energy and dedication of our fantastic team in the region as they support the Games reflect the values essential to strengthening our communities, breaking barriers and building a more inclusive society.”
Event Details
The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 will officially kick off on Saturday, February 8, 2025, with a high-energy Opening Ceremony at B.C. Place in Vancouver. This evening will set the tone for a week of sport competition, and feature performances from globally celebrated artists Chris Martin, Katy Perry, Noah Kahan, Nelly Furtado and Roxane Bruneau. As the week unfolds, competitors will take to the venues, demonstrating their unyielding strength and determination to turn adversity into triumph. Up to 550 competitors from 23 nations will compete in 11 sports – six of these will be adaptive winter sports, including Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, Biathlon, Nordic Skiing, Skeleton and Wheelchair Curling. Other adaptive sports include Indoor Rowing, Sitting Volleyball, Swimming, Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Rugby.
The Closing Ceremony, held on Sunday February 16, 2025, Live at Rogers Arena will bring the Games to an emotional close. Performances from Jelly Roll, Barenaked Ladies, and The War and Treaty will cap off a week of incredible achievements, celebrating the unity and spirit that define the Games. This final event will honour the competitors’ achievements and the unwavering support of their families, friends and communities who have championed their journeys.
As the countdown continues, the energy is undeniable. The roar of the crowd, the camaraderie among competitors, and the powerful music filling the venues will create an atmosphere like no other. Let us come together to celebrate the competitors who will soon take to the stage, the families, friends and supporters who stand by their side, and the global community that will make the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 possible.
