Mikayla McDonald began her journey with Special Olympics only two years ago and she is already set to compete in her first Provincial Games.

McDonald is a gymnast and swimmer from Grande Prairie who will participate in rhythmic gymnastics in Medicine Hat.

Currently a high school student, McDonald will start Grade 10 in the fall. She loves to read, go camping, and after her graduation she hopes to find a job that she enjoys – possibly working with children.

McDonald is driven by her faith in God and the support from her biggest fans - her family.

She advocates that Special Olympics has taught her “to never give up and always have faith,” adding that the coaches “are supportive and tell me to keep going when I want to quit.”

Preparations for Games are well underway and McDonald has been practicing lots, working out, and keeping fit to make sure she is ready for the Games.

“I am looking forward to seeing everyone there and having the confidence to compete against other athletes,” McDonald says.

Beyond the competition McDonald looks forward to lots of laughs on the bus ride with her friends, family, and teammates.

“When I first became part of the Special Olympics I was very nervous at first, but then I realized to could achieve something bigger than I thought I could.” – McDonald

Already competing in her first Provincial Games, the sky is the limit for McDonald who is aiming to compete in more events, earn some medals, and eventually participate in National and World Games.