Brayden Bates has been a rising star in gymnastics since he started competing at the age of 8. For close to a decade, he has honed his skills at Gymnastics USA in Winter Garden, a state-of-the-art facility that has become his second home. Under the guidance of coaches Nick Kosteski, Zander Arthur, and Vladimir Okachev, Brayden’s journey in gymnastics has been nothing short of extraordinary.
From his earliest days, Brayden’s talent was undeniable. He skipped the recreational class program entirely, joining a competitive team almost immediately. At just 10 years old, Brayden competed as a Level 5 gymnast and dominated the state championships, finishing first on the pommel horse, high bar, and parallel bars. His all-around victory at that competition earned him a spot at the 2017 USA Gymnastics Men’s Regional Championship, marking the beginning of his ascent in the sport.
Fast forward to 2024, Brayden Bates continued to excel in the gymnastics arena. On April 6th, at the Level 10 Regional Qualifier meet in Duluth, Georgia, Brayden finished 2nd overall. His first-place finishes on the high bar and pommel horse secured him a place on the 2024 USA Gymnastics Men’s Region 8 Team. The culmination of his efforts was at the National Championships in Daytona Beach on May 9th, where Brayden, now a junior at Lake Minneola High School, played a role in leading the Region 8 Team to a National Championship victory.
Reflecting on his experience, Brayden said, “It was exciting to be a part of the Regional 8 National Team and represent our region.” His words capture the pride and commitment that have driven his success throughout his gymnastics career.
Brayden Bates’ dedication and achievements over the past decade have not only brought him personal accolades but have also highlighted the excellence of Gymnastics USA in Winter Garden. As he continues to train and compete, Brayden remains a shining example of what hard work and passion can achieve in the world of gymnastics.
