The Trail Chasers

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“You don’t need to win it. You just need to learn from it.”

What if your first trail race wasn’t just a run—but a rite of passage? A place to learn, get it wrong, laugh at yourself, and fall in love with the trails?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Owen Middleton—founder of the iconic Trail Series® and the man who introduced thousands to their first-ever trail race. With nearly two decades of experience as a race director and route pioneer...

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"It's a coming together of friends, people who you feel like family." ​

Ever wondered how volunteering, vibes, and views come together to turn Ultra Trail Cape Town and Ultra Trail Drakensberg into unmissable community celebrations?

In this bonus episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Sue Ullyett—the event manager behind both UTCT and UTD. Sue shares how a chance coffee chat grew into a decade-strong core team, and how their passion for inclusivity transforms volunteers, spectators, and runners into one big trail family.

 What...

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🏃‍♀️ "Changing or impacting a life is really a long game. It's a commitment to walking alongside people and investing long-term." 

Have you ever considered the profound impact that trail running can have beyond physical fitness?

In this special bonus episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Lindi Meyer—the visionary behind LIV2run, a movement that's redefining lives through the simple act of trail running. Lindi shares how her personal passion for running and people converged to create a powerful community offering hope, opportunity, and a sense of bel...

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 🍌 "The secret isn't just training and running. It's all about your nutrition. What to eat before, during, and after a run can make or break your running experience."​

Ever felt completely drained halfway through your run or battled gut issues that ruin your experience? You're not alone!

In this episode of Trail Chasers, Jenna Bowes—a trail runner, registered dietitian, and expert in endurance sports nutrition—returns to the show to demystify trail running nutrition for beginners. With a practical approach backed by science, Jenna guides us through th...

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 👟 "Running shoes are exactly the same as jeans. Different brands have different shapes."

Choosing your first pair of trail shoes can feel like entering a foreign language class—foot shapes, pronation, stacks, drops... where do you even start?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Jono Rumbelow, run biomechanics specialist and shoe-fitting expert at RUN Specialist Store, to help beginners cut through the noise and find the perfect fit—without the overwhelm.

Jono shares his journey from competitive runner to internat...

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 🏃‍♂️ "Forget performance and enjoy it. Run with mates, explore new routes. Don’t look at your watch—spend more time looking up than looking down."

Starting trail running can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Erin van Eyssen, seasoned coach and founder of Flat Rock Endurance, to break down the best way to get started—without burnout, stress, or unnecessary complications. 

Erin shares his journey from discovering running in his 20s to becoming a coach, g...

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🏃‍♂️ "I never thought a running group would change my life—but it did."

In this episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Mike Obery to talk about the power of community in trail running. Mike shares how finding a running group not only helped him become a better runner but also introduced him to a supportive, inspiring community that made every trail run more fun and meaningful.

From feeling uncertain about joining a group to discovering the friendships, motivation, and shared adve...

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"I could bench press over 100kgs, but I couldn’t walk 5KMs." 🤯

In this special solo episode of Trail Chasers, Dean takes the mic alone for the first time to share his personal journey—how a passion for communication led him from university radio 🎙️ to the world of podcasting, and how trail running 🏔️ completely transformed his life.

From lifting heavy in the gym 💪 to struggling through his first run 😅, Dean opens up about the pivotal moments that changed everything—his struggles, breakthroughs, and why the trails became his true home. Plus, he s...

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What if I told you that the secret to becoming a stronger, faster, and injury-free runner isn’t just running more—but running smarter?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Brendan Lombard, an elite runner, coach, and sports scientist, to break down the art and science of training smarter, not harder. With years of experience coaching athletes worldwide, Brendan shares insights on balancing performance, recovery, and longevity in trail running.

Brendan reve...

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What if I told you that one woman’s vision, a simple WhatsApp group, and a desire for connection could create a movement that empowers women in trail running?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Bryony McCormick, the founder of Chicks Who Trail, to explore how a small idea became a thriving community that’s reshaping the trail running landscape for women. What started as a way to bring women together on the trails has evol...

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What if I told you that a small group of friends, a WhatsApp chat, and a love for the mountains could spark a trail running revolution?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz dives into the story of how trail running communities in the Deep South of Cape Town were formed—without plans, rules, or expectations. What started as casual meetups evolved into thriving, tight-knit groups that have redefined what it means to run together.

Dean sits down with Noah and Leanne from Muizenberg Trail Da...

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What if I told you that building a personal brand, embracing creativity, and conquering challenges could lead to a life of adventure and inspiration?

In this engaging episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz chats with Kieran, a trail runner and storyteller who left behind a data-driven career to pursue his passion for the outdoors. Kieran’s journey is a testament to innovation, perseverance, and the power of starting small to achieve big dreams.

Dean and Kieran explore how he turned a love for trail running into a...

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What if I told you that the journey of a trail runner can transform from focused ambition to a celebration of community, gratitude, and self-discovery?

In this engaging episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz welcomes Chantel Nienaber, a seasoned trail runner with over 12 years of experience and countless races under her belt. Chantel's story is one of evolution—from a competitive, podium-focused athlete to a runner who embraces the joy of the journey, the beauty of nature, and the bonds of community.

Dean and Chantel dive de...

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What if I told you the journey of a trail runner is filled with unexpected twists, personal growth, and the thrill of competition?

In this inspiring episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Rebecca Kohne, a rising star in the trail running community, to uncover her remarkable story. From battling a career-threatening injury to embracing the unique challenges of trail running, Rebecca’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and perseverance.

Dean and Rebecca explore her transformation from a determined teenager to an el...

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What if I told you that trail running isn’t just about conquering rugged terrains, but about building a community, showcasing natural beauty, and redefining what’s possible?

In this inspiring episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Dana Matar, a trail runner turned race organizer and founder of Peak Sports, to discuss how she’s transforming the UAE's trail running scene. From humble beginnings to organizing some of the region’s most challenging races, Dana shares her journey of creating inclusive events that attract beginners and elit...

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What if I told you that the journey of a trail runner isn’t just about the miles covered, but the stories discovered along the way?

In this insightful episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Becky Leighton, a trail runner, media professional, and storyteller, to explore the intersection of running and creativity. From tackling grueling ultra-distances to capturing the spirit of trail running through her lens, Becky shares how her passion for the trails has shaped her personal and professional life.

De...

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What if I told you that balancing the demands of farming with the creation of iconic trail races in the rugged Drakensberg could teach us about resilience, community, and the power of nature?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Spurgeon Flemington, a farmer who has not only cultivated his land but also brought trail running to the breathtaking landscapes of the Drakensberg. Spurgeon shares his journey of building the renowned Ultra-Trail Drakensberg and The Giant’s Cup Trail Run & Hike while balancing his re...

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What if I told you that pushing through the mud, heat, and altitude of Ecuador’s unforgiving landscapes could teach us about the raw power of resilience and teamwork?

In this episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with the Merrell Adventure Racing Team in a post-race debrief that captures the highs, lows, and lessons learned from their recent adventure racing odyssey. From the challenges of unpredictable terrain to the triumphs of unwavering camaraderie, the team opens up about the mental and physical toll of racing across on...

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What if I told you that the journey of a trail runner is filled with unexpected twists, personal growth, and the thrill of competition?

In this captivating episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz welcomes Rebecca Watney, a rising star in the trail running community, to share her inspiring story. From her humble beginnings in running to her breakout year filled with challenges and triumphs, Rebecca takes us through her evolution as an athlete and the lessons learned along the way.

Dean and Rebecca delve into the...

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What if I told you that one trail can transform your perspective, challenge your limits, and leave you yearning for more?

In this special episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz takes you deep into the heart of the Eastern Highlands to uncover the magic of SkyRun Zimbabwe—a race that’s become a bucket-list favorite for trail runners worldwide. From Afro-montane forests to breathtaking waterfalls, the Tarako Trail is more than just a run; it’s a journey through nature, community, and self-discovery.

Dean sits down with C...

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What if I told you that racing through an uncharted wilderness could reveal the ultimate test of grit, endurance, and teamwork?

In this thrilling episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz goes behind the scenes with a the Merrell AR Team, a South African adventure racing team on their journey from local trails to the global stage. These extraordinary athletes share what it takes to navigate some of the world’s toughest courses—armed with only a map, a compass, and an unbreakable team bond.

From the jung...

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What if I told you that pushing your limits can reveal the deepest truths about yourself—even when the path gets tough?

In this captivating Ultra Trail Cape Town (UTCT) special episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with Eva Sperger, Matt Bouch, and Anele Bans—three extraordinary runners with unique journeys through the highs and lows of ultra-running. Together, they dive into the grit, growth, and spirit of the trail running community as they prepare for one of the world’s most iconic races.

Eva, a...

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What if I told you that resilience and joy can go hand in hand—even through the toughest challenges?

In this compelling Ultra-Trail Cape Town (UTCT) Special episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz welcomes the inspiring Brittany Peterson, a world-class trail runner and coach, for an honest and uplifting conversation about rebuilding, rediscovery, and racing with purpose.

Brittany takes us through her incredible journey—from standout performances like her second-place finish at Western States to navigating the trials of major injuries and surgeries. With her background as a...

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What if I told you that trail running is more than just races and records—it’s about community, passion, and building a life inspired by the trails?

In this special UTCT edition of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz sits down with two of South Africa’s most iconic trail runners, Landie and Christiaan Greyling, for an inspiring conversation about their journey as elite athletes, parents, and pillars of the trail running community.

From their remarkable racing achievements to their dedication to fostering the next generation of trail...

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What if I told you that trail running isn’t just about competition or miles—it’s about discovery, connection, and uncovering your own limits?

In this thrilling UTCT Special edition episode of Trail Chasers host Dean Horwitz sits down with one of trail running’s rising stars, Jazmine Lowther, for an intimate conversation about ambition, community, and what it means to explore the world on foot.

Jazmine shares her captivating journey—from a passion for rock climbing to dominating the trail-running scene, including her record-breaking victory at Canyons...

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What if I told you that trail running isn’t just about endurance or grit—it’s about pushing boundaries, embracing nature’s raw beauty, and finding purpose with every step?

In this powerful episode of Trail Chasers, host Dean Horwitz catches up with one of South Africa’s most accomplished and inspiring trail runners, Naomi Brand, for an unfiltered conversation about resilience, passion, and the heart of the trail running community.

Naomi shares her incredible journey—from running cross country in school to competing on global st...

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What if I told you that mastering the art of trail running isn’t just about speed or endurance—it’s about embracing the wild unknown, thriving through the grind, and finding joy in every rugged step?

In this thrilling UTCT Special edition episode of Trail Chasers, host, Dean Horwitz sits down with two incredible athletes, Bianca Tarboton and Dan Jones, to uncover the secrets behind their success as world-class trail runners and Adidas Terrex teammates.

Bianca and Dan take us on a journey through their dynamic career...

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Ever wonder what it takes to dominate ultra-trail races worldwide while balancing a passion for sustainability, the outdoors, and community?
 
In this exhilarating episode of the Trail Chasers UTCT Special, host Dean Horwitz and co-host Musa dive deep into the trail running journey of Marcel Höche, known to fans as "Macy Pacy." Fresh from a record-breaking win at the Cappadocia Ultra-Trail, Macy joins us to share his insights on race-day mindset, his journey to the pinacle of the sport, and the culture of trail running across continents.

...

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 What if I told you the secret to breaking records on the world’s toughest trails—and living to tell the wildest stories—comes down to chasing the thrill of the unknown, thriving on the brink, and finding awe in every grueling step? 

In this dynamic and engaging episode of the Trail Chasers UTCT Special, Musa and I are thrilled to sit down with the remarkable Robbie Simpson: 2x Ultra-Trail Cape Town PT55km champion, record-holder, and Adidas Terrex athlete. 

Robbie takes us through his evolution from a young...

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What if I told you that the key to tackling the toughest trails—and perhaps the obstacles in life itself—lies in resilience, a good dose of humor, and maybe even a cold beer mid-race? 

In this engaging episode of Trail Chasers, we welcome South African trail running icon and legend "Pistol" Pete Calitz. Known for his relaxed yet competitive style, Pete takes us through his transformation from tennis player to tennis coach to road and mountain bike cyclist to dedicated and passionate trail runner, sharing how he fell in lo...

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 What if I told you that the secret ingredients for redefining your running—and even your approach to life—lie in consistency, community, and, yes, cake?

In this captivating episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with the remarkable Carla Molinaro—World 50km Champion, ultra-running superstar, social media sensation, as well as a coach, foodie, and professional athlete.
 
Carla shares her inspiring journey from exploring various sports, particularly triathlon, to fully embracing the world of running—from trail to road and now conquering ultra-marathons Carla's journey is as insight...

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How does an 11-year-old become a trail-running sensation, conquer a challenge as daunting as the 13 Peaks four times, and still find time to save orphaned baby rhinos?

In this special and heartwarming episode of Trail Chasers, we meet 11-year-old Mackenzie Knott, a trail-running superfan with a passion far beyond her years and her father Gareth who inspired Mackenzie's 1st steps into the sport. 

Mackenzie has already accomplished the incredible feat of completing the grueling 13 Peaks challenge not once, but four times—and she’s just getting started!
W...

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What's the hidden formula behind the coach-athlete synergy that unleashes ultra-running greatness?

This week we have a captivating and fascinating episode as I sit down with Thomas Vermaak and his coach James to tackle the mysterious and intrigiuing world of 100-mile racing. 

We delve into the inspiring journey of Thomas, a professional mountain guide turned ultra-distance trail runner with an unlikey origin story and James' start as coach when he was still in school.

Join us as Thomas shares his evolution from guiding athletes up T...

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What if you discovered a passion later in life that not only pushed your limits but transformed the way you see yourself and the world?

In this episode, we sit down with Craig Rodney, who started trail running later in life but quickly found that it's never too late to discover a passion. Craig opens up about his unexpected journey from agency life to becoming a dedicated trail runner. We explore his early memories of running, the challenges of balancing family life and running, and how starting "the race" late in...

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What happens when a trail runner finds the perfect partner to help her chase her dreams?

In a 1st for the Trailchasers Podcast host, Dean Horwitz sits down with rising star Lijan Burger and Claude Eksteen from Salomon to get a unique perspective on the relationship between athlete and sponsor.

In this episode, we explore the incredible story of Lijan Burger, whose partnership with Salomon has not only elevated her performance but also transformed her career. From navigating the technical terrains of Stellenbosch to representing...

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What does it take to turn a passion for running and running shoes into a thriving community?

In this insightful and educational episode, we sit down with Geoff Crowe, a dynamic running shoe influencer whose journey started with a simple goal: to inspire others through his love for running.
Geoff shares his unique journey of getting into running later in life, beginning in his late thirties around the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. He transitioned from a corporate career to remote work, giving him flexibility to focus on...

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How does someone balance their full-time career, family and a farm all the while tackling and winning some of South Africa's top 100 milers? 

In this captivating, honest and uplifting episode, we dive deep into the extraordinary life of Doug Pickard, owner of a trucking company by day, family man and farmer by night and trail runner on the weekends. Doug seamlessly balances his demanding professional career with a fervent passion for ultra trail running, family and farming.

Join us as Doug shares his remarkable journey from his e...

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What does it take to conquer the world's most iconic 100km trail race, the UTMB CCC, on your very first attempt?

In this inspiring, heartfelt and honest episode of the Trail Chasers we welcome the newly crowned UTMB CCC Champion and South African trail running legend Toni McCann into the studio.

Join us as we chase the trails with Toni from her recent win and experience all the way back to her cross-country days in grade 7 and her rediscovery of trail running while leading a sedentary life...

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What happens when running goes beyond physical endurance and transforms lives?

In this deeply inspiring episode of the Trail Chasers podcast, we delve into the transformative power of endurance running. Join us for an engaging conversation with Kyle and Miranda, two remarkable athletes who have redefined their lives through the sport. Miranda, a creative jeweller and former addict, shares her journey of overcoming substance abuse through ultra running, finding control and solace in the discipline. Kyle recounts his own battles with addiction, finding running and some seriously harrowing experiences...

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How many years of hard work in the shadows does it take to become an overnight sensation? 

In this special bonus PUFfer episode I sit down with 2-time and reigning champion Emily Djock to find out more about what it takes to breakthrough to the top of the SA trail running world and the answers may surprise you...

From the pavements of Wisconsin to the scenic trails of Cape Town, South Africa Emily's journey has been marked by memorable moments and outstading and often surprising achievements! From her fourth-place f...