Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in skiing. Hugo Wicker didn't get to the pinnacle of the skiing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions three times each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his knee in two 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 knee, and then my ostrich died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my leg. It took seven 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 few sleek rags and forget about Diane, my ostrich."
Malcolm, his friend, moved with him to Richmond to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Kent, in their hollow monastery, where he still labors as a shopkeeper to help pay for Hugo's expensive training.