Dani Jones returns as the top runner in Arizona in the 800m, the 1600m and the 3200 meter runs. She is ranked nationally at US#24 in both the 800m and the 1600 meter.
Keep checking back to see who makes the Arizona Milesplit 'Watch List" in Track and Field.
Journal Questions:
Name: Dani Jones (Dani's Milesplit Profile)
High School: Desert Vista
Year of Graduation: 2015
Track and Field PR's:
800: 2:10.33
1600: 4:51.17
3200: 10:48.28
When did you first get involved with track and field? How long have you been running:
Both my parents ran for a Division 1 college as middle distance and distance runners, but they never pushed me into the sport. I told myself I was a soccer girl and no one could convince me otherwise.. except maybe my little sister. Truthfully, I am a very competitive person in almost everything I do, and seeing my sister excel in track encouraged me to want to join. I joined the Arizona Cheetahs track club and never looked back. With no prior experience, I had no clue how to run a race and knew very little about the sport. As an eighth grader, I ran the 800 meter at Junior Olympic Nationals and soon after the race my mom turned to me and said, “You just ran a 2:17!” My only response was “Is that good?”
What is a typical training week like for you?
I like to call my coach, ‘the most organized man in the world’. Knowing this, my typical training week is a very structured one. Monday is usually the day I hit the track with some short/fast reps and this is usually followed by a steady run on Tuesday and a recovery run on Wednesday. Thursday is my tempo run day followed by some short reps on the track. Finally, after a recovery day on Friday, I finish up the week with a 100 minute steady run on Saturdays. I lift and run twice a day, two days per week. Sunday is definitely my favorite training day (30 minute run followed by a 120 minute nap).
What are your goals for the upcoming track season?
I like to think of this season as the most important season in my high school career. Having that in mind, I have big goals for the upcoming season. The most important goal I have for myself is to trust. I want to trust my training, my coach, and myself. Of course I’ll be chasing new PR’s this year, but overall, I don’t want to sell myself short this year. I want to prove to myself that I belong at the front of the pack at any meet, in any state, and with any competition I come across this year. Most importantly, I want to enjoy every minute of it!
How do you prepare yourself mentally for a race? Do you have any superstitions?
Just keep smiling! This is definitely great mental preparation before a race. For me, it comes down to reassuring myself and a smile can relieve some pressure/nerves that I’m feeling that day. I used to make myself look as intimidating as possible, but now I feel that it is a big waste of energy. If I’m happy to be there, why not express it?!
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 have never been more excited for my upcoming track season because of my meet schedule this year! I’ll be competing in some in-state meets like Aztec and Chandler Rotary. However, I am thrilled to say that in less than a month I’ll be competing in New York, for New Balance Indoor Nationals! I will be returning to Arcadia to run the 1600 and I am also excited to take three of my teammates with me for a 4xmile. In the post high school season, I am looking at New Balance Outdoor Nationals, Brooks PR, or the Dream Mile. It all depends on the conditions, the competition, and qualifying.
What message would you tell younger runners who aspire to be at the top?
Its cheesy I know, but believe in your mentors, your training, and yourself! Running used to be a mental battle for me and racing used to mean rolling the dice with my self confidence. I let my insecurities in competition get the best of me and robbed myself of three seasons as a lower classmen because of it. “Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right” is a quote I take into every competition. I’ve learned that thinking you can and knowing you can, are two very different beliefs. Lastly, to excel in a sport like distance running, you HAVE to love it and that’s something I’ve been able to do. I love the sound of the gun and the rush of the first 100 meters. I love pushing myself, the burning sensation in my lungs, and the ache in my legs. Don’t just go through the motions, running is a way of expressing yourself!
If you had to attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
I can attribute my recent success to a change in my training. It has raised my confidence and I’ve never felt more prepared for races. My fitness level has drastically changed my performances.
Do you have role models or mentors in track and field?
I can’t count with two hands how many people have contributed to my success or have encouraged me to be a stronger athlete. Personally, Jessica Tonn is a huge role model of mine. Watching her success inspires me to never sell myself short, especially when I reach the college level. Coach Bernie has been my running partner for a year now and has helped me become not only a better racer, but a smarter trainer. Coach C was my cross country coach for two years and still continues to support me. Of course, Coach Messer and my parents have done so much for me as a runner and a person. They saw my potential when no one else did, including myself. It took all three of their efforts to build me as an athlete.
How many events do you compete in and which event is your favorite?
The 800, 1600, and 3200 are my main events. As of right now, I can’t decide between the 800 and the mile. The mile is a very challenging race when it comes to strategy and having aerobic strength while also having leg speed. The 800, like Coach Bernie likes to say, takes a different kind of crazy. I love how challenging they both are, the 1500 might be the race for me!
What are 3 things we don't know about you?
- I grew up in Indiana, which explains my Midwest family fan club at cross country state this year.
- I played soccer for 8 years before I began running track and I haven’t touched a soccer ball since. In fact, I sometimes walk by the dv soccer team doing drills and laugh thinking about how different things would be!
- I would eat pancakes for breakfast, lunch and dinner if I could.
Best thing your coach ever said to you?
“There are no limits to what you can do” is my favorite Coach Messer quote.
Shout Outs?
The Wolf family for joining us during winter training! I loved getting to know you and running with you every morning. I’m so thrilled to have new coaches and a new teammate!
Quick 6:
Favorite Pre-race Meal?
Pasta, even for breakfast.
Favorite Winter Olympic Sport?
Cross Country Skiing
Favorite Meet?
Arcadia
Cross Country or Track and Field?
Never thought I’d say this, but cross country is really rubbing off on me. Can’t decide for now!
Perfect temperature to compete in?
Probably NXN weather, around 10 degrees….NOT. I’ll stick with 70 and sunny.
Favorite song at the moment?
Holland Road-Mumford and Sons
