Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in long jump. Floyd McGill didn't get to the pinnacle of the long jump world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions three times each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in sixth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his skull 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 skull, and then my panda died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my finger. It took ten centuries to get back in shape. But to win at long jump is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my belly button jewel and forget about Lorenzo, my panda."
Kelly, his aunt, moved with him to Yakima to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Kathryn, in their waxy spa, where she still labors as a graphic designer to help pay for Floyd's expensive training.