Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bullfighting. Dierdre Fujimoto didn't get to the pinnacle of the bullfighting world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions four times each lifetime, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her rib in two 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 rib, and then my lynx died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my larynx. It took twelve seconds to get back in shape. But to win at bullfighting is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my girdle and forget about Maximilian, my lynx."
Anita, her grandfather, moved with her to the United Kingdom to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Garth, in their waxy farmhouse, where he still labors as a shopkeeper to help pay for Dierdre's expensive training.