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 un

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