We're thrilled to feature Danielle Lewis, a phenomenal triathlete whose journey from collegiate running to triathlon stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Join us as we explore Danielle's path, her triumphs, challenges, and the unwavering determination that drives her success.
A Humble Beginning: From Baylor University to Elite Cycling
Danielle Lewis's athletic journey began at Baylor University, where she was a standout runner. However, her path was not without obstacles. In her senior year, Danielle faced a significant setback when she contracted mono and suffered from a vitamin D deficiency. This illness derailed her plans, and she had to confront the end of her collegiate running career under less-than-ideal circumstances. "It was just awful. To end your running career like that and not knowing why because I felt like I was running really fast," Danielle recalls.
Despite this setback, Danielle's competitive spirit remained unbroken. After graduation, she transitioned to elite cycling, where she found new challenges and successes. However, cycling also brought its own set of hurdles. A severe accident in 2014 left her with fractured bones in her back, forcing her to reconsider her future in elite sports.
The Turning Point: Rediscovering Passion for Sport
A light bulb moment at home made her realize that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. She decided to pursue triathlon, starting from scratch with swimming and integrating her cycling and running skills. "I got a bike just to get myself back into shape. I thought at that point, okay, I'm going to start pursuing triathlon," she shares.
Her first triathlon was a success, finishing as the second female overall and first in her age group. This marked the beginning of her incredible journey in triathlon.
The Struggle with Injury and Recovery
Danielle's journey was not a straight path to success. She faced numerous challenges, including another severe cycling accident and a complex neuromuscular issue that baffled medical professionals. Despite these setbacks, Danielle's determination never wavered. "I started working with a strength coach, Shannon Klassen, who identified areas where there was a connection issue in my body. That made a big difference," she explains.
Her relentless pursuit of excellence and her ability to pivot and adapt were key factors in her recovery and eventual success. "I don't know if I always pivoted well. But I decided in 2017, like, okay, you know what, we just got to go for it," Dani reflects.
The Rise to Elite Triathlete
Dani's perseverance paid off. In 2017, she won several national titles and earned her elite license. Her rise in the triathlon world was marked by impressive performances and podium finishes. One of her most notable achievements was her recent victory at Lake Placid, just two weeks after a stellar performance at Roth.
"The energy is just electric. When I came around on the bike, this corner and looked up to Solar Hill, I just saw this massive sea of heads. And then I immediately started crying," Danielle recalls her emotional experience at Roth.
Future Goals and Aspirations
Danielle's journey is far from over. With her sights set on upcoming world championships and continued improvement, she remains focused on her goals. Her commitment to consistent training, smart nutrition, and mental resilience is evident in her approach. "I know what my weight needs to be to be the strongest version of myself. It's a fine line to flirt with, but it's essential for my performance," Dani emphasizes.
Danielle Lewis's journey from collegiate running to elite triathlete is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit. Her story inspires us to overcome obstacles, adapt to new challenges, and pursue our passions with relentless dedication. As Danielle continues to thrive in the world of triathlon, we look forward to witnessing her future successes and cheering her on every step of the way.
Stay tuned to the Lever Movement Podcast for more inspiring stories from incredible athletes like Danielle Lewis. Follow her journey on Instagram for the latest updates on her training, races, and achievements.
