Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in walking. Draco Del Genio didn't get to the pinnacle of the walking world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions one time each lifetime, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his appendix 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 appendix, and then my parakeet died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my wig. It took two decades to get back in shape. But to win at walking is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my cape and forget about Donald, my parakeet."
Milton, his mentor, moved with him to Niger to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Liling, in their disgusting house, where she still labors as a rabble rouser to help pay for Draco's expensive training.