Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Rich Roman didn't get to the pinnacle of the bronc riding world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions one time each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his wrist 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 wrist, and then my rabbit died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my scalp. It took eleven decades 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 midi skirt and forget about Deb, my rabbit."
Sharon, his sister, moved with him to Cambodia to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Will, in their ragged office, where he still labors as a rabbi to help pay for Rich's expensive training.