Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in long jump. Brandie Weatherford 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 one time each day, followed by the usual homework for someone in twelfth grade.
Two years ago, she broke her heart in three 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 heart, and then my Guinea pig died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my heel. It took twelve eternities 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 wedding dress and forget about Pablo, my Guinea pig."
Beulah, her sister, moved with her to Pueblo to be with her coach, leaving behind her father, Miguel, in their unusual subway tunnel, where he still labors as a house spouse to help pay for Brandie's expensive training.