725. Amanda Vestri, Top American at the 2024 New York Mini 10K

"I’m used to having to claw my way to prove myself to the people I need to prove myself to. But now, it’s more of a mentality I have: Keep your head down. There’s nothing glamorous about this sport. For me, it’s all hard work, show up, showcase your fitness, and then go celebrate with the people who really care about you." Amanda Vestri was the talk of the running scene last weekend, after her breakout road race at the New York Mini 10K. She finished fourth overall (Senbere Teferi won the race for the third year in a row), was the top American finisher, and ran 31:17 in a deep, star-studded field. In this conversation, the Syracuse University graduate and ZAP Endurance athlete talks about getting a huge confidence boost heading into the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials later this month where she'll race the 10,000m. Plus, why the 24-year-old likes racing with a chip on her shoulder, and her long-term plans and goals in this sport. FOLLOW AMANDA @a_vestri SPONSORS:  UCAN: Click here to get a FREE UCAN training essentials pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code ALI for 20% off your next UCAN order. New Balance: Click here to shop New Balance's latest releases for the season. What you’ll get on this episode: How Amanda is feeling after racing the Mini 10K in New York City (2:20) All about race morning (7:30) Amanda breaks down her race at the Mini 10K (10:20) On racing with a chip on her shoulder, and who Amanda looks up to in this sport (21:40) What it will take to make Team USA this year (28:45) On growing up with Olympic dreams (30:30) What Amanda was like as a kid, and how she became a runner (50:50) What training will look like between now and the Trials (53:50) Follow Ali: Instagram @aliontherun1 Join the Facebook group Twitter @aliontherun1 Support on Patreon Subscribe to the newsletter 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!