Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in pole vault. Ling André didn't get to the pinnacle of the pole vault world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions three times each decade, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her palm in four 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 palm, and then my grizzly bear died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my liver. It took nine years to get back in shape. But to win at pole vault is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my veil and forget about Alan, my grizzly bear."
Alexei, her sister-in-law, moved with her to Honolulu to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Shepard, in their nice villa, where he still labors as a bicycle messenger to help pay for Ling's expensive training.