Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in rock climbing. Elmer Flake didn't get to the pinnacle of the rock climbing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for three grueling sessions four times each eternity, followed by the usual homework for someone in ninth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his aorta 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 aorta, and then my iguana died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my big toe. It took eleven centuries to get back in shape. But to win at rock climbing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my leotard and forget about Lex, my iguana."
Ollie, his sister, moved with him to Scottsdale to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Jeri, in their crusty house, where she still labors as a busboy to help pay for Elmer's expensive training.