Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bullfighting. Shelly Peterson didn't get to the pinnacle of the bullfighting world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions four times each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her spleen in four 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 spleen, and then my doggie died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my pride. It took four centuries to get back in shape. But to win at bullfighting is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my pair of roller skates and forget about Winnie, my doggie."
Alexander, her mentor, moved with her to Tokyo to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Chuck, in their worn convent, where he still labors as an au pair to help pay for Shelly's expensive training.