Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in softball. Kris Burtle didn't get to the pinnacle of the softball world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions three times each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his thumb in three 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 thumb, and then my bison died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my femur. It took twelve years to get back in shape. But to win at softball is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my bib and forget about Eppie, my bison."
Tracy, his girlfriend, moved with him to Venezuela to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Thomas, in their big spa, where he still labors as a news reporter to help pay for Kris's expensive training.