Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Raymond Busch didn't get to the pinnacle of the bronc riding world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions four times each decade, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his larynx in three 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 larynx, and then my leopard died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my piehole. It took three fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at bronc riding is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my diamond bracelet and forget about Dolores, my leopard."
Raymond, his main squeeze, moved with him to South Bend to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Benjamin, in their jade bungalow, where he still labors as a baker to help pay for Raymond's expensive training.