Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in walking. Montague Mainz didn't get to the pinnacle of the walking world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions four times each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his piehole in four 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 piehole, and then my coyote died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my tooth. It took two hours to get back in shape. But to win at walking is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my Eton jacket and forget about Elmer, my coyote."
Paul, his grandpa, moved with him to Brasilia to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Ronnie, in their leather penthouse, where he still labors as a scientist to help pay for Montague's expensive training.