Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in chess. Reginald Maxwell didn't get to the pinnacle of the chess world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions three times each week, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his palm 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 palm, and then my bunny died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my lung. It took nine weeks to get back in shape. But to win at chess is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my uniform and forget about Michelle, my bunny."
Fido, his grandma, moved with him to Norfolk to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Stephen, in their thick castle, where he still labors as a real estate agent to help pay for Reginald's expensive training.