A BACKABUDDY campaign has been started to help a young, passionate Amanzimtoti girl who has been selected to represent South Africa in gymnastics at the Down Syndrome World Championships in Bulgaria in June.

Also read: Amanzimtoti girls shine at the South African Gymnastics Games

Madissen Holmes, 14, is well known for her loving and bright spirit and for not being shy about handing out free hugs and high fives. She has Trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome. Her proud mother, Roxane, said that while Madissen’s obsession with gymnastics began just before the Covid-19 pandemic, she has been competing in gymnastics only since 2025. The many gymnastics meets Madissen competed in in 2025 saw her earn her KZN colours.

“To be selected to represent her country is an enormous achievement at such a young age. It fills us with pride, and we are grateful to our community for all their support thus far,” said Roxane.

After lockdown came into effect, she could not attend lessons, and she compensated for that by watching hours and hours of gymnastics on YouTube and even managed to teach herself some of the near-impossible moves. Her determination grew with her strength. After lockdown, she resumed lessons.

Madissen does artistic gymnastics, which includes beam, bars, floor, and vault. Her favourite apparatus is the uneven bars and the floor.

Also read: Amanzimtoti woman recognised in Africa for sport impact

Her mother said she goes for training three times a week at Fly High Gymnastics Academy, and has been training with the same coaches since she was seven.

The trip to the championships is self-funded, and the Backabuddy campaign seeks to raise funds for Madissen, a parent, and the coach.

“Never did we dream that our little girl would be able to achieve such an amazing opportunity, and while we don’t like to ask for help, we would be doing her no justice if we didn’t do everything possible to get to world champs,” said Roxane.

To contribute towards Madissen’s trip to the Down Syndrome World Championships in Bulgaria, go to: https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/madissens-gymnastics-world-champs-aventure

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