Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in rock climbing. Juan Barnes didn't get to the pinnacle of the rock climbing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions one time each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his fingernail 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 fingernail, and then my moose died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my knee. It took five weeks to get back in shape. But to win at rock climbing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my T-shirt and forget about Vince, my moose."
Emma, his girlfriend, moved with him to Glendale to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Mahatma, in their crusty palace, where he still labors as a filmmaker to help pay for Juan's expensive training.