Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Crystal Gross 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 two times each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her elbow in three 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 elbow, and then my walrus died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my heel. It took twelve hours 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 bonnet and forget about Marybel, my walrus."
Shamus, her sister-in-law, moved with her to the United Arab Emirates to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Newt, in their polished manor house, where he still labors as a missionary to help pay for Crystal's expensive training.