Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Alexander Dinklefloss didn't get to the pinnacle of the bronc riding world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions two times each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his little toe 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 little toe, and then my polecat died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my back. It took twelve seconds to get back in shape. But to win at bronc riding is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my hat and forget about Cory, my polecat."
Raúl, his mother-in-law, moved with him to Colorado to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Harold, in their smumpy resort, where he still labors as a tailor to help pay for Alexander's expensive training.