The Duke of Edinburgh, who has been patron of the British Paralympic Association since 2003, sent a heartfelt message to Team GB ahead of the games, which run from March 6 to March 15. The video was shared on social media by Buckingham Palace with a message wishing luck to ParalympicsGB. In the video, Prince Edward said, "I just wanted to wish you all the best for the forthcoming Games in Italy, and I hope that that, just as generally, but also in your individual competitions.
" This comes after Edward was forced to withdraw from a major royal event due to illness. He was expected to attend a ceremony at St James’s Palace last Tuesday, alongside his brother, King Charles, Queen Camilla, Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, where Charles presented the Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Higher and Further Education to 19 universities and colleges. Edward was nowhere to be seen during the grand affair.
I just wanted to wish you all the best for the forthcoming Games in Italy, and I hope that that, just as generally, but also in your individual competitions. The Olympic team surprised so many of us, and I know that you're going to go out there and surprise many as well.
It is understood that the Duke has been pacing himself after coming down with a cold and has opted to skip the event. The specific illness that caused his withdrawal has not been disclosed. Meanwhile, King Charles has praised Paralympians from Team GB and nations across the Commonwealth following their success at the Winter Games in Milan-Cortina.
Team GB secured one medal at the games thanks to Neil Simpson and Rob Poth in the visually impaired alpine.
And you're just going to be able to show them exactly what you can do.
So, good luck, have fun, and however you're involved in the team, I hope you really enjoy the experience.