Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bicycling. Fred Boodler didn't get to the pinnacle of the bicycling world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions three times each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his appendix 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 appendix, and then my newt died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my chest. It took thirteen eternities to get back in shape. But to win at bicycling is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my cowboy hat and forget about Drew, my newt."
Jeremy, his mom, moved with him to Canada to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Renee, in their waxy hut, where she still labors as a songwriter to help pay for Fred's expensive training.