Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in fencing. Morton Usher didn't get to the pinnacle of the fencing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions two times each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in seventh grade.
Two years ago, he broke his tail 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 tail, and then my turtle died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my spleen. It took nine centuries to get back in shape. But to win at fencing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my black armband and forget about Edith, my turtle."
Adam, his sister-in-law, moved with him to Paris to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Clive, in their electric mobile home, where he still labors as a fire marshal to help pay for Morton's expensive training.