Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in diving. Bix Torres didn't get to the pinnacle of the diving world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for eight grueling sessions three times each fortnight, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, he broke his collarbone in two 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 collarbone, and then my penguin died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my adrenal gland. It took one fortnights to get back in shape. But to win at diving is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my tailcoat and forget about Loretta, my penguin."
Mikey, his aunt, moved with him to the Congo to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Beauford, in their stiff barracks, where he still labors as a cobbler to help pay for Bix's expensive training.