Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in cricket. Patrick McCord didn't get to the pinnacle of the cricket world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions one time each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his claw 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 claw, and then my sloth died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my belly button. It took thirteen years to get back in shape. But to win at cricket is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my balaclava and forget about Alberto, my sloth."
Antoinette, his grandfather, moved with him to Malawi to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Desmond, in their expensive houseboat, where he still labors as a gardener to help pay for Patrick's expensive training.