Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Mopsy Tucker didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions one time each minute, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, she broke her hairdo in four places. But this didn't stop her. She seems even more determined to excel at her sport.
"I was really down when I broke my hairdo, and then my snake died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my tooth. It took three months 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 gown and forget about Maggie, my snake."
Marla, her mother-in-law, moved with her to Bellevue to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Heidi, in their greasy mobile home, where she still labors as an auctioneer to help pay for Mopsy's expensive training.