Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Nestor Porrello didn't get to the pinnacle of the bronc riding world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for two grueling sessions one time each lifetime, followed by the usual homework for someone in tenth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his artery 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 artery, and then my koala died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my paw. It took thirteen months to get back in shape. But to win at bronc riding is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my pair of sandals and forget about Thad, my koala."
Drover, his mentor, moved with him to Nigeria to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Joni, in their bulky sod house, where she still labors as an entrepeneur to help pay for Nestor's expensive training.