Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in skiing. Ahmed Northrum didn't get to the pinnacle of the skiing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions one time each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his kneecap in two 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 kneecap, and then my dodo bird died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my calf. It took seven hours to get back in shape. But to win at skiing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my body shirt and forget about Jolene, my dodo bird."
Reginald, his grandpa, moved with him to Zimbabwe to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Zed, in their worn trailer, where he still labors as a sports writer to help pay for Ahmed's expensive training.