Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in badminton. Martin Madison didn't get to the pinnacle of the badminton world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for one grueling session four times each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his wrist 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 wrist, and then my chameleon died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my spine. It took ten months to get back in shape. But to win at badminton is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my gown and forget about Lottie, my chameleon."
Russ, his aunt, moved with him to Berlin to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Socks, in their crisp spa, where he still labors as a baker to help pay for Martin's expensive training.