Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in skiing. Beth Rice didn't get to the pinnacle of the skiing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for one grueling session three times each blink of an eye, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her tongue 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 tongue, and then my hamster died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my toe. It took twelve seconds to get back in shape. But to win at skiing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my coat and forget about Lorna, my hamster."
Maloney, her mommy, moved with her to Albuquerque to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Kirsten, in their smooth chateau, where she still labors as a pawnbroker to help pay for Beth's expensive training.