Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in fencing. Peg Pham didn't get to the pinnacle of the fencing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions three times each century, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her back in four places. But this didn't stop her. She seems even more determined to excel at her sport.
"I was really down when I broke my back, and then my lovebird died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my gut. It took eleven seconds 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 apron and forget about Dillon, my lovebird."
Siggy, her girlfriend, moved with her to Vancouver to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Gavin, in their stuffed cabin, where he still labors as a gopher to help pay for Peg's expensive training.