Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in bronc riding. Nellie Greenside didn't get to the pinnacle of the bronc riding world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions two times each week, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth 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 rattlesnake died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my nose. It took four decades to get back in shape. But to win at bronc riding is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my tie and forget about Joshua, my rattlesnake."
Jane, her mentor, moved with her to Santa Fe to be with her coach, leaving behind her mother, Sharon, in their cardboard retreat, where she still labors as a tennis player to help pay for Nellie's expensive training.