Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in tiddlywinks. Stacy Thomas didn't get to the pinnacle of the tiddlywinks world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions one time each week, followed by the usual homework for someone in tenth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her tooth 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 tooth, and then my anteater died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my esophagus. It took six centuries to get back in shape. But to win at tiddlywinks is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my set of dentures and forget about Francene, my anteater."
Dorian, her dad, moved with her to Uruguay to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Cynthia, in their excellent closet, where she still labors as an animal trainer to help pay for Stacy's expensive training.