Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in badminton. Beauford Douglas didn't get to the pinnacle of the badminton world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for one grueling session two times each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in eleventh grade.
Two years ago, he broke his earlobe in three 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 earlobe, and then my wombat died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my arm. It took two lifetimes to get back in shape. But to win at badminton is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my motorcycle helmet and forget about George, my wombat."
Julieann, his mom, moved with him to Abilene to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Upton, in their musty convent, where he still labors as a page to help pay for Beauford's expensive training.