Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in gymnastics. LaDue Benson didn't get to the pinnacle of the gymnastics world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions one time each month, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, he broke his shin 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 shin, and then my kitty died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my antenna. It took ten lifetimes to get back in shape. But to win at gymnastics is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my tunic and forget about Martin, my kitty."
Hannah, his sister, moved with him to a ghetto to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Miguel, in their greasy motor home, where he still labors as a songwriter to help pay for LaDue's expensive training.