As the 2013 Track and Field season gets underway, we will be highlighting some of the top athletes in each event.
Journal Questions:
Name: Danielle Jones
High School: Desert Vista High School
Year of Graduation: 2015
Track and Field PR's:
1600: 5:03
800: 2:14
When did you first get involved with track and field? How long have you been running:
This is my third year of track. I started with the Cheetahs track club in eighth grade. During my very first meet I managed to spike myself and cry the entire way to the meet, but I was lucky enough to experience JO Nationals and gain much needed experience before high school!
What is a typical training week like for you?
My typical training week consists of aerobic tempo/interval workouts on Mondays and Thursdays, relaxed runs on Tuesdays, steady runs Wednesdays, distance runs on Saturdays with 30 to 40 minutes recovery on Fridays and Sundays. (about 55 miles a week currently)
What are your goals for the upcoming track season?
I hope to run in the girls invite mile at Arcadia. Overall my goal for this track season is to reach my full potential.
How do you prepare yourself mentally for a race? Do you have any superstitions?
Before every race I read a note that my dad wrote for me before my first state meet. I keep it tucked in one of my spikes before I race so I can read it before I compete. I do visualize races to mentally prepare myself but try to stay clear of only picturing the end. I try to think about the position I want to be in, how fast I need to go out, etc.
What does your season look like and will you be competing in any out of state track meets during the season or post high school season?
I plan on traveling to Arcadia again this April, I’m also interested in racing at New Balance Outdoor Nationals in June!
What message would you tell younger runners who aspire to be at the top?
I would tell younger runners what my coach has told me; that there is no belief too great for a true believer and no accomplishment too audacious for those who possess true courage.
If you had to attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
If I had to attribute my success to one thing it would be the amazing coaching staff at DV and the support I have at home. The little things my coaches and parents do for me makes the biggest difference in my performance.
Do you have role models or mentors in track and field?
My mom has always been my role model as a formal D1 runner and my assistant coach. (still after her high school records)
How many events do you compete in and which event is your favorite?
I run the 400 up to the 3200. Last year the 800 was by far my favorite and was always my main focus. After a successful cross country season, however, I’m beginning to really enjoy the mile!
What are 3 things we don't know about you?
-I’m originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana.
-I played soccer for 8 years and never played again after my first season of track.
-Although I love the 800 and mile, running the last leg of a 4x4 could be one of my favorite things to do.
Quick 7:
Favorite Pre-race Meal?
PASTA
Favorite TV show or movie?
Friends all day, everyday
Favorite Meet?
Arcadia (no question)
Celebrity Crush?
Joseph Gordon-Levitt (another no brainer)
Perfect temperature to compete in?
70 but really anything under 100
Favorite song?
White Blank Page- Mumford & Sons
Favorite quote/or saying?
“To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.”
~ Steve Prefontaine