Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in marathon running. Esmeralda Frinklehofer didn't get to the pinnacle of the marathon running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions two times each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her ego in three 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 ego, and then my weasel died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my fingernail. It took one centuries to get back in shape. But to win at marathon running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my bustier and forget about Cassandra, my weasel."
Tyler, her grandma, moved with her to Washington DC to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Darcy, in their bulky igloo, where she still labors as a musician to help pay for Esmeralda's expensive training.