Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bicycling. Aristotle Popper didn't get to the pinnacle of the bicycling world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions four times each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, he broke his rib 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 rib, and then my magpie died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my scalp. It took nine fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at bicycling is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my suit of armor and forget about Andy, my magpie."
Malcolm, his sister, moved with him to Birmingham to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Bunny, in their cotton motel, where she still labors as an optician to help pay for Aristotle's expensive training.