Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in running. Gabriel Morrison didn't get to the pinnacle of the running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions four times each minute, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his calf 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 calf, and then my colt died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my face. It took eight minutes to get back in shape. But to win at running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my blouse and forget about Ace, my colt."
Nan, his aunt, moved with him to Washington DC to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Dierdre, in their large stinky shack, where she still labors as a scientist to help pay for Gabriel's expensive training.