Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in swimming. Preston Beasley didn't get to the pinnacle of the swimming world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions three times each hour, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his claw 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 claw, and then my puppy died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my pinky. It took twelve minutes to get back in shape. But to win at swimming is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my locket and forget about Virginia, my puppy."
Norma Jean, his grandma, moved with him to Alabama to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Bria, in their crude cottage, where she still labors as an evangelist to help pay for Preston's expensive training.