LONDON, April 6 (Xinhua) -- Prince Harry and his bride-to-be, American actress Meghan Markle, Friday met injured military hopefuls bidding for places at this year's Invictus Games in Sydney.

Prince Harry, who is patron of the Invictus Games, and Markle traveled to Bath University where UK team trials were taking place ahead of this year's games in October.

The couple's Royal wedding takes place next month at Windsor Castle when Markle will officially become a princess as she joins the British Royal Family.

The Invictus Games, which have previously been held in London, Orlando and Toronto, set out to harness the power of sport to inspire recovery, support rehabilitation and generate a wider understanding and respect for wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women.

More hopefuls than ever before, totaling 451, have applied to take part in the 2018 Invictus Games and all hope to be selected as part of the 72-strong UK team.

Across the weekend hopefuls who have suffered a life-changing injury or illness will trial in 9 different sports including Athletics, Archery, Wheelchair Basketball, Road Cycling, Powerlifting, Indoor Rowing, Wheelchair Rugby, Swimming and Sitting Volleyball. Hopefuls have also trialed in a new sport for the 2018 games, sailing.