Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in fencing. Ashley Van Hook didn't get to the pinnacle of the fencing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions two times each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her pride in two places. But this didn't stop her. She seems even more determined to excel at her sport.
"I was really down when I broke my pride, and then my ladybug died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my pride. It took fifteen months to get back in shape. But to win at fencing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my watch and forget about Dusty, my ladybug."
Elly, her grandma, moved with her to Mauritania to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Saul, in their aromatic hovel, where he still labors as a folk singer to help pay for Ashley's expensive training.