Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in rock climbing. Doralene Arthur didn't get to the pinnacle of the rock climbing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions three times each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her knuckle 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 knuckle, and then my lovebird died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my tummy. It took five years 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 tutu and forget about Bria, my lovebird."
Plato, her aunt, moved with her to Anaheim to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Matthew, in their polished subway tunnel, where he still labors as a nanny to help pay for Doralene's expensive training.