Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in running. Barb Peng didn't get to the pinnacle of the running world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for one grueling session four times each lifetime, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, she broke her spine in two 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 spine, and then my hornet died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my scalp. It took nine lifetimes to get back in shape. But to win at running is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my leotard and forget about Leah, my hornet."
Amanda, her wife, moved with her to Suriname to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Alisa, in their crisp villa, where she still labors as a psychologist to help pay for Barb's expensive training.