Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in barrel racing. Parson Owen didn't get to the pinnacle of the barrel racing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for six grueling sessions three times each year, followed by the usual homework for someone in fifth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his tummy 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 tummy, and then my kitten died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my finger. It took ten minutes to get back in shape. But to win at barrel racing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my cap and forget about Kirsten, my kitten."
Coleen, his mother, moved with him to Scottsdale to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Briget, in their mysterious skyscraper, where she still labors as a flutist to help pay for Parson's expensive training.