Robert Gagno's instant attraction to pinball reaps rewards 20 years later
Professional pinball player Robert Gagno, 24, trains in his parents garage for an upcoming tournament in Burnaby, B.C. Feb. 19, 2013. Robert, who is currently ranked 1st in Canada in pinball, is also autistic. Robert practices on his family’s 8 pinball machines at their home.Ben Nelms/The Globe and Mail
Robert Gagno, 24, trains at Pub 340 in downtown Vancouver for an upcoming tournament.Ben Nelms
Robert Gagno was diagnosed with autism as a child. Doctors have said autism might play a role in his pinball skills.Ben Nelms
Robert Gagno reacts while watching other players qualify prior to the finals at the Rose City Showdown professional pinball tournament in Portland, Ore., on Feb. 23, 2013.Ben Nelms/The Globe and Mail
Pinball player Bob Matthews of California plays in the finals at the Rose City Showdown professional pinball tournament in Portland, Oregon, U.S.A on February 24, 2013. Some players prefer to wear gloves when playing in tournaments.Ben Nelms
Canadian pinball champion Robert Gagno (R) high-fives another player after qualifying for the finals during the Rose City Showdown professional pinball tournament in Portland, Oregon, February 23, 2013.Ben Nelms/The Globe and Mail
Robert Gagno’s trophies on display at his parents’ home in Burnaby.Ben Nelms/The Globe and Mail
Pinballer Robert Gagno rides the skytrain to practice at a pub in downtown Vancouver.Ben Nelms/The Globe and Mail
Maurizio Gagno, left, watches his son Robert play in the finals at the Rose City Showdown professional pinball tournament in Portland, Ore. Feb. 24, 2013.Ben Nelms/The Globe and Mail