Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in badminton. Ray Rawlings didn't get to the pinnacle of the badminton world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions one time each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his eye in three 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 eye, and then my duck-billed platypus died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my thumb. It took thirteen eternities 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 stovepipe hat and forget about Cornelius, my duck-billed platypus."
Arnie, his cousin, moved with him to Cuba to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Bosco, in their handy stinky shack, where he still labors as an interior designer to help pay for Ray's expensive training.