Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in fencing. Nathaniel Richter didn't get to the pinnacle of the fencing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions one time each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in tenth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his jaw 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 jaw, and then my gopher died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my ear. It took thirteen centuries to get back in shape. But to win at fencing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my belt and forget about Pam, my gopher."
Rutherford, his mom, moved with him to the Marshall Islands to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Damon, in their charming trailer, where he still labors as an obstetrician to help pay for Nathaniel's expensive training.