Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Maximilian Riggs didn't get to the pinnacle of the bronc riding world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions two times each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his ego 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 ego, and then my porcupine died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my larynx. It took eight days to get back in shape. But to win at bronc riding is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my Panama hat and forget about Arthur, my porcupine."
Kathy, his friend, moved with him to the Philippines to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Phineas, in their crisp teepee, where he still labors as a government agent to help pay for Maximilian's expensive training.