Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Mama Gorman didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for one grueling session two times each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her wig 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 wig, and then my sloth died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my bicep. It took nine weeks to get back in shape. But to win at swimming is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my bustier and forget about Nicki, my sloth."
Connie, her dad, moved with her to Santa Fe to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, John Paul, in their bizarre office, where he still labors as a fisherman to help pay for Mama's expensive training.