Prince Edward Makes Extremely Rare Video Statement on Social Media

It's not often that we get videos from royal family members, but Prince Edward just shared a special message ahead of the 2020 Paralympic Games.

The Earl of Wessex, who is a patron of the Great Britain and Northern Ireland Paralympic team, posted a clip with a speech of encouragement to the competitors. “As the moment—this year's Paralympic Games in Tokyo—gets ever closer to actually getting on the way, I want to wish you the very best of luck,” he says at the beginning of the video. “Now, while parts of the experience will be slightly surreal, in particular the lack of any spectators, I hope these won't detract from the main purpose, which is of course, the competition.”

Similar to the 2020 Olympic Games earlier this summer, the Paralympic Games will not contain any spectators besides coaches and teammates, due to the coronavirus pandemic. However, the earl noted this change with a little bit of humor, saying, “You can be sure that your family, friends and supporters will be there in spirit, following along on the screen and expending plenty of energy and frustration by shouting at it, fruitlessly.”

To close, the royal finished on an inspirational note. “We all send you massive congratulations on being selected. You now have the chance to compete against the very best in the world, and indeed, to win,” he said. “And more importantly, we want you to go out there and to achieve your best. Make us proud and inspire the next generation of athletes with a disability. And whatever happens, I hope you have a brilliant experience in Japan. The Paralympic Games is a unique event and the Japanese will undoubtedly try to make it a memorable one for you.”

Along with the video message, the post included photos of various athletes and the caption said, “Wishing all Paralympians everywhere every success at the #Tokyo2020 Paralympic Games! The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games begins on 24th August! #4DaysToGo.” The games will be televised on NBC.

There's nothing to get you motivated quite like a special message from a royal. Good luck to all the competitors!

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