A Campbell Riverite will be the sole Canadian representative at the Pan-Am Open Gymnastics Championship in Mexico this month.
Braedyn Stovman, a 23-year-old with Down Syndrome, is participating in the event, which will run from Oct. 18 to Oct. 22 in Cancún.
"Gymnastics has become his passion, and over time his forte," said his mother, Brandi Stovman. "What started back in 2019 as a simple P.E. activity for homeschooling quickly grew into a way of life. Gymnastics has given him confidence, coordination, strength, and pure joy."
Stovman said there aren't many dedicated programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities in the Campbell River area, and most of her son's training has been through private lessons. However, he is part of the Campbell River Gymnastics Association, training under Todd Sader. Stovman is also a certified gymnastics coach and serves as Braedyn's assistant coach.
"We've been working to introduce adaptive gymnastics locally, but it's slow to catch on," said Stovman. "This competition gives him the chance to finally show the world what he can do, alongside other incredible athletes who face similar barriers."
Stovman said they did a fundraiser to help her son get to Mexico, passing their goal of $6,500.
"Words can't express how deeply grateful we are for every single person who has supported Braedyn's journey, whether through donations, shares, kind words, or cheering him on from near and far."
