Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in skiing. Velma Javits didn't get to the pinnacle of the skiing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions one time each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in seventh grade.
Two years ago, she broke her horn in two 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 horn, and then my airedale died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my eyebrow. It took five decades 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 pacifier and forget about Anita, my airedale."
Juan, her grandpa, moved with her to Springfield to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Horst, in their slimy penthouse, where he still labors as an advice columnist to help pay for Velma's expensive training.