Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in fishing. Lorna Pope didn't get to the pinnacle of the fishing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions two times each decade, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her kneecap 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 kneecap, and then my spider died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my tooth. It took thirteen years to get back in shape. But to win at fishing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my tuxedo and forget about Ryan, my spider."
Steven, her grandmother, moved with her to Lansing to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Kris, in their disgusting housing project, where he still labors as a horse trainer to help pay for Lorna's expensive training.