Today we’d like to introduce you to Bart Lopez.
Hi Bart, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, my family moved frequently, making it difficult to form lasting friendships. As an introverted kid, I had to reinvent my social circles time and time again, which shaped my resilience but made connection a challenge. On top of that, I struggled with my weight and never saw myself as athletic. Despite these challenges, one constant in my life was my love for knights, castles, and medieval history.
In the summer of 2022, at my heaviest (280ish pounds) and feeling deeply depressed, I stumbled upon an ad for an armored combat demo at the University Mall in Orem. Intrigued, I went with my wife, April, and some friends to see what it was all about. That day marked the beginning of a transformation I never expected. As I became more involved in armored combat, I found not only a sport but a community—a place where I could push myself both physically and mentally.
April was supportive of my armored combat hobby but hesitant to join in. Determined to get her involved, I saw an opportunity at a renaissance faire in Hildale, Utah and arranged for her to borrow a suit of armor. She expected to only try on the armor and walk around the faire, but I secretly coordinated with the team to get her into battle. As she finished suiting up, the announcer introduced April as the next Longsword duelist. I put a helmet on her head, a sword in her hand, and with a few moments of longsword instruction, we pushed her into the arena. That fight changed everything and she went on to fully commit, buy her own armor, and now fights as often as anyone.
I never imagined that within two years I would find myself as the president of an armored combat team, but with the encouragement of my wife and close friends, Invictus Armored Combat has become something truly special. This team has not only given me lasting friendships but has also transformed my health—I’ve lost over 60 pounds, grown stronger, and discovered a resilience I didn’t know I had. More than that, armored combat has brought my childhood dreams to life, allowing me to experience the world of knights and battle I once only imagined. After years of moving from place to place, I am profoundly grateful to have finally found a home—a place to set down roots, forge bonds, and build a lasting legacy alongside incredible people who inspire me every day.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
In any journey, there are inevitably bumps in the road, and this journey has, itself not been a smooth one.
One of the biggest struggles has been financing the team. Armored combat is an expensive pursuit—gear, maintenance, and travel costs add up quickly—but it doesn’t pay much. Our main source of income comes from entertainment at renaissance faires and private events, yet opportunities are limited. Still, we’ve worked hard to keep things moving forward, finding creative ways to sustain the team despite financial challenges.
At one point, we pooled our limited funds to buy a trailer and mats for transporting and setting up training spaces. Unfortunately, the trailer was stolen, setting us back significantly. It was a tough loss, but it strengthened our determination to press on.
Armored combat attracts people from all walks of life, each bringing unique motivations and expectations into the sport. Balancing individual ambitions with the collective spirit of the team takes constant effort. But through navigating these challenges, we’ve built resilience, deepened bonds, and strengthened the foundation of what makes this sport truly special.
Finding a consistent place to train has also been difficult. It took months to secure a location, and even now, coordinating a time and space that suits everyone remains an ongoing challenge. Yet through every obstacle, we continue to push forward, problem-solving as a team, because we believe in what we’re building—an enduring community built on passion, perseverance, and the shared love of armored combat.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Invictus Armored Combat, LLC?
Team Invictus is first and foremost a competitive armored combat team. We take pride in the skill and dedication of our fighters, with gold medal duelists on our roster and members competing on the USA team for the international championship this August. Our commitment to excellence drives us to push our limits, sharpen our techniques, and represent our sport at the highest level.
Beyond competition, we focus on inspiring young people and giving back to our community through outreach and charitable events. We’ve hosted demos at the Spanish Fork library to introduce teenagers to the art of armored combat and partnered with local public schools for hands-on learning experiences. Education and engagement are central to our mission, and we actively seek ways to make an impact.
Currently, we’re collaborating with a local teacher to organize a charitable event aimed at raising funds to pay off school lunch debt. Our team is always looking to expand our nonprofit outreach, finding new ways to use our platform for good.
We are also deeply involved in the Utah community, performing at the biggest renaissance faires in the state and working alongside notable figures such as Brandon Sanderson and Dragonsteel. Whether competing, educating, or entertaining, Team Invictus is built on passion, skill, and the desire to leave a lasting legacy—on and off the battlefield.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I have been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by a community of experienced fighters, supportive friends, and generous mentors who have played a crucial role in my journey. Many veteran fighters—including Jake Omer, Jonathan Cheney, Philip Millerd, Tre Waldrum, and Grant Holmes—have shared their knowledge and experience.
Beyond the battlefield, I’ve had the privilege of leaning on the support and wisdom of Kristina Cheney, Janessa and Albert Bowen, and Jacquie Peterson. Their encouragement and insight have been invaluable in navigating the challenges of leadership and growth.
Additionally, our team has received tremendous support from the local women’s armored combat team, the Knightingales, and their captain, Emily Bond. Their dedication and enthusiasm have strengthened our community and elevated the sport in incredible ways.
There are far too many people to name here, but I am deeply grateful for the many wonderful and helpful individuals who have shaped this journey. Their contributions have made Team Invictus what it is today, and I would not be where I am without them.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/invictusarmoredcombat
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/invictus.armored.combat/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/invictus.armored.combat
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@invictus.armored.combat
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@invictus.armored.combat
