Their Island holiday is making international headlines, but in North Saanich, no one seems too surprised. “We call it god’s country and I think it’s wonderful that we can share and that they’re interested in seeing that part of the neighbourhood,” said longtime North Saanich resident Marlyn Davis.
Prince Harry, Meghan, and Archie, we’re all wishing you a quiet and blessed stay in Canada. You’re among friends, and always welcome here.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) December 21, 2019
Over the last few days, there have been several reports of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, enjoying their Christmas on the Island. Buckingham Palace confirms the family is spending Christmas in Canada, but some believe there’s a reason they chose greater Victoria.
“Even members of the royal family who are quite distant from the line of succession don’t just up and go on a holiday without a lot of advanced planning. There’s reasons that they go places and that certainly leads me to believe that they’re interested in Victoria,” said past Monarchist League of Canada Representative Bruce Hallsor.
Back in August, Victoria was shortlisted as one of the two cities that would host the Invictus Games in 2022. The Games are an international athletic event for wounded and sick armed forces members, started by Prince Harry back in 2014.
Hallsor believes the visit could mean it’s a done deal. “You know why would he pick this place of the places in the world, maybe he wants to have a look because he knows something we don’t know,” Hallsor said.
Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps stopped short of saying it’s in the bag.
“I think it’s a great sign,” said Helps. But added the games would be great for the region.
“Having that calibre of event here in greater Victoria shows that we really are becoming a world-class sport hosting destination so that’s one, but two the spirit of the Invictus Games is recovery, championing people who have fallen, it’s about mental health, mental wellness so I think that’s really a good fit for our region,” Helps said
Victoria is up against Dusseldorf, Germany for the rights to host the event. An announcement is expected in January.
We reached out to Victoria’s bid committee but did not hear back.
As for the Royals, they’re keeping a low profile, perhaps enjoying a city, Harry will be returning to soon.
Ben Nesbit
