Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in canoeing. Max Emerson didn't get to the pinnacle of the canoeing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for two grueling sessions four times each week, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his nose 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 nose, and then my chameleon died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my throat. It took seven seconds to get back in shape. But to win at canoeing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my winter coat and forget about Dick, my chameleon."
Eleanor, his mother, moved with him to Waco to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Simeon, in their chic teepee, where he still labors as a dentist to help pay for Max's expensive training.