316. Dani Jones, New Balance Professional Middle-Distance Runner

“We made the most out of a hard year. And what we did this year is going to pay off.” Earlier this year, four-time NCAA champion Dani Jones decided to forgo her remaining NCAA eligibility at the University of Colorado in the pursuit of going pro. She signed with an agent — Hawi Keflezighi — and joined Joe Bosshard and Emma Coburn’s training group, “Team Boss.” And today, Dani has an exciting announcement to share: She’s officially a fully sponsored professional runner, having just signed with New Balance. On this episode, Dani talks about what it’s really like going pro (particularly during this pandemic year); talks about training alongside women like Emma Coburn, Aisha Praught Leer, Cory McGee, and Dominique Scott; and divulges her biggest hopes and dreams on the run. What you’ll get on this episode: How it feels to be a sponsored professional athlete (3:30) How Dani’s training has changed since joining Team Boss (7:00) On Dani’s decision to forgo her remaining NCAA eligibility in order to go pro (9:10) What it’s really like going pro (11:30) Why Dani chose to sign with Hawi Keflezighi and HAWI Management (14:30) Did Young Dani always plan to go pro? (16:40) On joining Team Boss (30:25) How Dani’s feeling looking to 2021 (39:30) Follow Dani: Instagram @dani.joness Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Like the Facebook page Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Blog Strava Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify SoundCloud Overcast Stitcher Google Play SUPPORT the Ali on the Run Show! If you’re enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Spread the run love. And if you liked this episode, share it with your friends!