Halton student ranks first in the world in international math competition

By Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

A Grade 9 student from Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School has clinched the top spot in a prestigious international mathematics competition, beating out more than 5,000 students worldwide.

Max Pimentel earned the highest cumulative score in the Grade 9 and 10 category of the Caribou Mathematics Competition, a global series of six rigorous online contests held throughout the school year.

Students from over 30 countries — including Canada, the United States, China, Turkey and nations across Europe — participated in the event.

The Caribou Cup, open to students from kindergarten to Grade 12, challenges participants with logic puzzles, arithmetic problems and complex mathematical concepts designed to test both skill and speed.

Max’s remarkable performance across all six contests placed him first in the world for his age group, an achievement hailed as a “true testament” to his perseverance and natural mathematical ability.

“This is an extraordinary accomplishment, and we couldn’t be more proud,” the Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB) said in a statement.

“Max’s success reflects our shared commitment to achieving academic excellence — one of the key pillars of our Multi-Year Strategic Plan. His dedication proves what is possible when students are encouraged to aim high and pursue their passions.”

Pimentel’s talent for numbers is matched by his achievements outside the classroom. He is also the reigning Ontario Rock Climbing Champion in the 2009–2010 age category, demonstrating a well-rounded approach to personal growth and determination.

Holy Trinity Catholic Secondary School praised Max’s “world-class” consistency and commitment throughout the year, noting that his success has inspired both staff and students alike.

With ambitions to pursue mathematics at the university level, Max is already charting a path toward a future in higher education and competitive academic pursuits.

HCDSB said it looks forward to following Max’s journey, and called his achievements “an inspiration to us all.”

“Max is the kind of student who makes a lasting impression — not just for his academic accomplishments, but for the way he balances excellence with humility and drive,” the board said.

“We’re proud to celebrate his success, and excited to see where his talents take him next.”