Prince Harry Says It's a "Huge Shame" Princess Diana Isn't at Invictus Games

by Francesca Bacardi
May 09,2016

Prince Harry kicked off the Invictus Games Sunday, but there is a notable person missing from the important event: his mom, Princess Diana.

The redheaded royal stat down with Today's Jenna Bush Hager in a pre-taped interview that aired Monday morning and opened up about the inspiration behind his multi-day sporting event and how he wishes his mother could be there.

"That was very happy memories," Harry recalled of his first trip to Disney World with his mother more than 20 years ago. "It's a huge shame she's not here, but I hope she'd be incredibly proud of what we managed to achieve."

Although he hasn't been able to turn to his mother in times of need, Harry said his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, has been an incredible role model even though she's in charge of a lot. "My grandmom's always been the boss, but my God she gives the most amazing advice," he explained to Hager. "She lets us cruise around doing what we think is right."

Of course, both he and his brother, Prince William, have made mistakes along the way. "It's part of growing up," he said. "You've got to find your own path."

And finding his own "path" is what led him to starting the Invictus Games, a competitive event that has wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel and veterans competing in different sports. Harry made it clear, however, that this event is more than just friendly competition.

"This is not a sob story—far from it. These guys don't want sympathy," he explained. "All they want is an opportunity to prove to themselves that despite my injuries, whether they be physical or mental, I'm still the same person."

Competition aside, the most this British royal is looking for is for everyone to have a good time in Florida while maintaining an "electric atmosphere" and "full" seats. The latter certainly won't be a problem, as Harry has nailed some pretty A-list names for his event. First Lady Michelle Obama, former President George W. Bush and Morgan Freeman all played a role at the opening ceremony.
"I, of course, want to start by thanking Prince Harry for his outstanding leadership and for bringing the Invictus Games here to Orlando," Obama said in her introductory remarks to the immense crowd. "He is truly our Prince Charming, isn't he? And he should be proud of himself for this work."

not mine.credit and source: E! ONLINE