Here’s a few Q&A’s to let you get to know Dani King a little better:
What is your background in Cycling? -I was a swimmer and runner before I started cycling. British Cycling came to my school in Southampton and tested us to get onto the talent team. I only did the test to get out of a math lesson. I got through all three tests and made it onto the British Cycling Talent team, and after about 6 months of juggling swimming, running and cycling decided I wanted to give cycling a good go as I had a passion for it and drive to succeed.
How long have you been involved in the sport and what was your first event? - I’ve only been in the sport for 4 years. My first event was the pursuit which I competed in as part of the National Track Championships in 2006. I got a silver medal which I was really pleased with as id only just decided to focus on cycling.
What would you like to achieve in the next 5 years? - In the next 2 years I would like to become a pro on the road, compete in the World Road Race and potentially the 2010 Commonwealth Games this year in Delhi. I want to keep improving and getting results in large international races. I would also like to compete and achieve good results in International track events such as World Cups. Ultimately my aim is to become World Champion and Olympic Gold Medalist.
What are your strongest points? -I spent a year on the Olympic Development Sprint Squad and so still have a strong sprint both on the road and the track.
What would you say is your most prized cycling possession? - Well, it would have to be out of my National Champions jersey or my track bike!
What would you class as your best ride or position to date and why? - I would probably have to say finishing the 6 day UCI stage race Thurigen. I was 1 of only about 50 riders to finish the 6 stages and it was my first senior stage race as a 1st year under 23.
Who is your favourite sports person and why? - I have loads! Obviously Nicole Cooke is a massive idol of mine within cycling. Also Mark Cavendish! He is incredible. Kelly Holmes is a inspiration of mine, she went through so many ups and downs in her career and kept going throughout.
Have you got any advice for any young people thinking of getting involved in cycling? - You’ve got to be committed so don’t give up if you have a bad day!
How do you relax after a race? - I love to chill out with my boyfriend and friends, watch TV, Listen to my i-pod.
Tell us about riding for Horizon Fitness: I’m really excited about riding for this new team! It’s made up of some great girls so I believe we are going to have a really good year. We’ve got some great sponsors and I think we will bond together really well and will be a really strong team!
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