Several people are representing New Brunswick at the 2023 Jeux de la Francophonie.

The Games are taking place in the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Central Africa.

“This major gathering is an opportunity for young New Brunswickers to shine on the international stage,” Glen Savoie, the minister responsible for la Francophonie, said in a news release.

Six athletes are taking part in freestyle wrestling, according to the province:

• Tania Blanchard of Fredericton in the under 50 kg category;
• Vivian Kutnowski and Jonathan Sherrard, both of Fredericton, in the under 65 kg category;
• Raymond Hazell of Richibucto in the under 70 kg category;
• Elena Sehic of Fredericton in the under 72 kg category; and
• Koen Poirier of Bathurst in the under 74 kg category.

The team is being coached by Don Ryan of Maugerville, with Fredericton’s Jeff Allen acting as assistant coach.

Guillaume Lépine of Taylor Village is participating in painting while Pierre-André Doucet of Moncton is representing the province in literature.

Doucet was Team New Brunswick’s flag bearer in the parade of nations, which took place during the opening ceremonies on Friday. This is his third Games, having participated in France in 2013 and in Lebanon in 2009.

“The athletes and artists participating at these Games have worked very hard to reach this level of competition,” Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Tammy Scott-Wallace said in the release.

The participants are supported by the head of delegation Willy Mayaliwa, the chef de mission Jason Arseneault, and mission staff member Armand Doucet.

The Jeux de la Francophonie began on Friday and continues through Aug. 6