Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Bum Singh didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions three times each month, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his arm in four places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my arm, and then my ox died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my heel. It took two days to get back in shape. But to win at swimming is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my pacifier and forget about Jennessa, my ox."
Salvatore, his mentor, moved with him to Rhode Island to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Cliff, in their handy townhouse, where he still labors as a woodworker to help pay for Bum's expensive training.