Prince Harry shared a message of encouragement for Scott Meenagh as the British para-nordic skier prepares to compete at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Milan, marking his third appearance at the international event.
On March 7, the Duke of Sussex delivered a recorded video message congratulating Meenagh. The clip was shared on Instagram by Channel 4 Paralympics. The message came as the Winter Paralympics get underway in Milan, and after Meenagh was named a flagbearer for Great Britain during the opening ceremony held on Friday in Verona.
“I just want to say a huge congratulations. You’re carrying our flag … wow … wow — that is huge,” Prince Harry said to Meenagh in the video message. “Huge, huge respect, mate, congrats. I hope you’re really happy. I hope you can feel proud of where you’ve got to.”
Meenagh is competing in cross-country skiing and biathlon at the Games. He previously took part in the inaugural Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry, and competed in the 2014, 2016, and 2017 editions of the event.
The Duke of Sussex also encouraged the athlete to focus on enjoying the competition while striving for strong performances. “And now, all you need to do is smash the PBs [personal best], get a medal if you want — and most importantly, have fun,” Prince Harry said.
Harry also reflected on Meenagh’s athletic journey, recalling a memorable moment from the 2017 Invictus Games. “Your running blade broke and you carried on, didn’t let it stop you. You finished the race, you crossed the finish line … That was such a true example of your spirit and your determination,” he said.
The Duke went on to praise Meenagh’s perseverance throughout his recovery and return to elite competition following his military injury. “Throughout your recovery process, you have never faltered. You have pushed through on every single element. And look at where you are now,” Prince Harry continued.
Related: How Olympian Alysa Liu Keeps Her Skin From Cracking On The Ice For Just $12
He concluded his message by highlighting the broader impact of Meenagh’s participation in elite sport. “Know that every single time you go out there and do what you do, you’re inspiring so many other people. So thank you for being you.”
Scott Meenagh Prepares For Third And Final Paralympic Appearance
Scott Meenagh appeared as one of Great Britain’s flagbearers at the opening ceremony of the Winter Paralympics on Friday, alongside British alpine skier Menna Fitzpatrick.
Before his athletic career in para sport, Meenagh played competitive rugby in Scotland as a teenager. At age 21, he lost both legs after stepping on an improvised explosive device while serving in Afghanistan.
Following his injury, he joined the Paralympic Inspiration Programme, where he began training in Para Nordic skiing. His development in the sport led to international competition and selection for major championships.
For the unversed, Meenagh first gained recognition within adaptive sport when he competed in the 2014 Invictus Games in Para Rowing and won two silver medals. Two years later, he made his competitive debut for Great Britain at a World Cup event in Finland.
At the Beijing Winter Paralympics in 2022, Meenagh placed sixth in the 12.5 kilometer individual biathlon race, one of his strongest finishes at the Games.
In Case You Missed: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Confirms Niece Zoe Hines Has Signed With WWE
The 2026 competition marks his third Paralympic appearance and he has stated that it will also be his final one. Meenagh has indicated he plans to step away from elite sport after the Games to focus on family life with his children.
He shares two children, daughter Bryn, 4, and son James, 2, and has said he wants to devote more time to fatherhood after years of international competition and training.
