Military service veteran Dani Audino merges careers in professional cycling and footwear design, involving construction and explosions in both aspects
In the world of competitive cycling, Dani Audino stands out as a unique figure. With a full-time civilian job as a footwear designer for Specialized, Audino is also a Company Executive Officer in the US Marine Corps Reserve, a role she took up in 2021. Her military duties involve a range of demanding tasks, from demolition work to breaching obstacles and neutralizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Based in Eugene, Oregon, she skillfully balances her military service with her civilian life and her passion for bike racing[1].
Audino's military background has a profound influence on her approach to both her athletic and professional pursuits. The discipline, resilience, and strategic thinking she learned in the Marines are invaluable in the high-pressure environment of competitive cycling. As a member of Fount Cycling Guild, she applies the focus and teamwork she honed in the Marines to her racing, consistently staying in the front of the peloton and fulfilling her role as a teammate[1].
In her civilian role at Specialized, Audino's military experience also proves beneficial. The structured mindset she cultivated in the military helps her excel in her footwear design job. The combination of the challenges of military service and competitive sports provides her with a well-rounded perspective on handling stress, leadership, and problem-solving in both arenas[1].
Audino's achievements in cycling are impressive. She has won four one-day races at the entry Cat. 4 level and finished second in the criterium at Valley of the Sun stage race. Fount Cycling has been able to work around her military schedule to allow her to attend various races this year. Her energy and determination are contagious and inspiring to her team[1].
Recently, Audino made a decision to transition from the reserves to full-time military service. This change will require her to adjust to new challenges, such as positioning, tactics, and assertiveness in the top criteriums across the US. However, her resilience and adaptability, honed in the Marines, will undoubtedly serve her well in this transition[1].
Audino finds racing in criteriums challenging and rewarding, appreciating the dynamic and fun atmosphere they provide. She started bike racing for Fount Cycling Guild two years ago, and switched to cycling from triathlon fully in 2022. Her success in the sport can be traced back to her initial selection by Fount Cycling's co-founder and manager Jennifer Wheeler from a Talent ID camp[1].
Despite the demands of her military service and her commitment to cycling, Audino finds bike racing easier than some physical activities in the military, such as 'rucking', where one carries a heavy load on their back and moves long distances quickly. However, she acknowledges the team's flexibility with her schedule and the opportunity to gain racing experience as crucial factors in her success[1].
In summary, Dani Audino's unique combination of a military background and a successful civilian career in footwear design and competitive cycling is a testament to her resilience, discipline, and adaptability. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that one can excel in multiple arenas with the right mindset and determination.
References: [1] [Redacted for brevity]
- Dani Audino's military background and educational experiences in the Marines have significantly impacted her approach to career development and sports, ensuring her success in both bike racing and her civilian job as a footwear designer.
- Audino's dedication to her passion for bike racing, along with her interest in education-and-self-development and career-development, shows that she is not only an exceptional athlete but also a well-rounded individual with a focus on achieving success in multiple areas of life.
