Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Sig Peralta didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions one time each lifetime, followed by the usual homework for someone in seventh 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 tropical fish died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my adrenal gland. It took six fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at swimming is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my class ring and forget about Claire, my tropical fish."
Lori, his main squeeze, moved with him to the Czech Republic to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, T.J., in their puzzling castle, where he still labors as a math teacher to help pay for Sig's expensive training.