Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in marathon running. Tim Riggs 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 one time each decade, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his brain 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 brain, and then my dingo died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my ear. It took thirteen 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 sweatshirt and forget about Justin, my dingo."
Shawn, his girlfriend, moved with him to Nicaragua to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Jeanette, in their filthy sod house, where she still labors as a chauffeur to help pay for Tim's expensive training.