The World Arm Wrestling Championship toy drive will honour memory of a young Kelowna champion.

Nick Petrov was a rising young star in the arm-wrestling world whose life was tragically cut short in a vehicle accident in Mexico. The accident also claimed the life of Nick's father and coach, Daniel Petrov.

With the Championships due to begin in Kelowna in early December, Nataliya Petrov, has organized a toy drive in association with the event, in memory of her son's vibrant spirit and passion for the sport and for others.

"Nicky took an interest in arm wrestling from his dad," says Nataliya. "He (Daniel) was also a champion arm wrestler and he got Nick involved when he was young."

"Daniel and Nick were at the B.C. Arm Wrestling Championships, held at the Snow Fest here in Kelowna, and there was an opportunity for Nick to step into the kids competition. Daniel suggested he try it out. Nick ended up winning the silver medal. And he won medals at every competition he entered over the next few years."

Petrov says the early win inspired him to continue competing.

"Later on, he took top in his class at the Snow Fest in Summerland and he took gold in the right arm division at the 2003 BC Arm Wrestling Championship in Kelowna," Nataliya says. "Daniel took him to the World Juniors in Poland where he was the youngest to compete in the history of the sport."

Nataliya says dealing with the loss of her husband and son, who both showed so much promise and compassion for the sport and for other people, inspired her to become involved in the health and wellness industry. Through her new-found passion, she is helping to educate people about living a healthy lifestyle and maintaining their health so that they can be their best in life.

New and gently used, unwrapped toys can be dropped at the Christmas tree in the foyer, during the World Championships at the Delta Grand Hotel, Wednesday, December 3 through Saturday, December 6, with all donations going to local charities to benefit local children in need.