Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in marathon running. Molly Baca didn't get to the pinnacle of the marathon running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions three times each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her wig 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 wig, and then my manatee died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my shin. It took twelve fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at marathon running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my gladiator helmet and forget about Abe, my manatee."
Roman, her grandpa, moved with her to Lesotho to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Vivian, in their clean parsonage, where she still labors as a clerk to help pay for Molly's expensive training.