Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in rock climbing. Solomon Carson didn't get to the pinnacle of the rock climbing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for seven grueling sessions three times each decade, followed by the usual homework for someone in third grade.
Two years ago, he broke his heart in four 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 heart, and then my polar bear died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my heart. It took fifteen months to get back in shape. But to win at rock climbing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my bracelet and forget about Wilma, my polar bear."
Bernadette, his friend, moved with him to Delaware to be with his coach, leaving behind his father, Darin, in their polished barracks, where he still labors as an archeologist to help pay for Solomon's expensive training.