Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in cycling. Christopher Schibbel didn't get to the pinnacle of the cycling world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for five grueling sessions four times each month, followed by the usual homework for someone in fourth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his pride 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 pride, and then my salamander died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my artery. It took thirteen eternities to get back in shape. But to win at cycling is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my suit and forget about Lynette, my salamander."
Barnabas, his sister-in-law, moved with him to Columbus to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Monica, in their rough stinky shack, where she still labors as a politician to help pay for Christopher's expensive training.