ELITE BLUES
We put a few more questions to Landie, including more on her background in running, impressions of the Two Oceans Trail Runs, balancing family and running commitments, and the possivility of a comeback to competitive running.
So where did it all begin – even before trail running?“ Before I really started trail running, I did adventure racing with my husband, where we did long hours on the mountain bike, then we would paddle, then we would try to run into the mountains. There were all sorts of other disciplines, such as abseiling and any kind of adventure, really!”
“ As a child, I loved running and I did crosscountry and all sorts of sport. Running was always my number one passion. I indulged in many disciplines, but when time constraints manifested due to working and doing my articles, I realised I only have time for one thing – and then I chose running. I enjoyed it, and one thing led to another! Then, because I enjoyed it, I became better at it. The professional running aspect started unfurling, and at that point I had to make a decision as to whether I was going to work or run professionally.”
Images: Action Photo SA, Two Oceans Marathon & courtesy Landie Greyling
“ Twenty years ago or so, trail running was in its infancy in South Africa. I got into it when it was still a young sport, and I basically capitalised on that. The enjoyment factor helped me hone my technical skills, and having grown up on a farm also helped a lot. We always did lots of off-road exploring!”
On her way to UCT in the 2025 Ultra, with a top 10 finish beckoning
Landie at the 2016 Trail Run start with hubby Christiaan and fellow trail stars AJ Calitz and Bennie Roux
What is it that kept you coming back to the TOM Trails specifically?“ I think it was really just amazing to be a part of the whole TOM vibe – people from all over the world come to run the world’ s most beautiful ultra marathon, and you want to be a part of that! The TOM trails are spectacular. They’ re not easy, but not too challenging, either, and showcase what trail running in the Western Cape is all about.”
“ Back when I ran my first TOM Trail events, I was so focussed on trail running that I didn’ t really look at the Ultra. In 2014, I did the Half Marathon straight after the Trail Run, and I remember I was very sore after racing two days in a row, but I enjoyed it. I just wanted to experience the road running vibe of the event. Little did I know that 10 years later, I would run the Ultra as well, so, it was kind of like a full circle moment.”
Speaking of the Ultra, tell us about finishing ninth in the TTOM Ultra.“ Honestly, of all my road races, it was my favourite run. I had the best day! Everything clicked and it was just one of those days where I was just enjoying the run, without putting any pressure on myself because it was a road ultra and I didn’ t have that experience yet. It was amazing how God allowed me to achieve what I achieved on that day, and I’ m very happy with my result.”
Given your holistic approach to career, family demands and an active lifestyle, what tips do you have for fellow TOM runners an approach to a healthy lifestyle, particularly with the upcoming festive season, that is both fun and responsible?“ The million dollar question is, is there any one recipe for success in all facets, in all life stages, in all seasons? Unfortunately, there’ s no magic formula, but my tip – since you asked – would be this: It’ s all about the habitual small things. Don’ t make it about one big thing, or a way of life, that then becomes a chore or sacrifice.”
“ I learnt that the hard way after my pro season ended, when I became a rebel for two weeks. Milkshakes, ice cream, chocolates and glasses of wine all quickly added up, and after two or three weeks, my energy levels suffered and I wasn’ t feeling that productive anymore! So, my advice is to allow yourself seasons where you’ re a bit kinder and give yourself a bit of freedom to do small things, such as having a slice of cake with your coffee. You don’ t want to indulge in everything all at once, but do still have a day off! Just remember that we’ re creatures of habit, so you don’ t want to veer too far from the little things you do consistently to keep you feeling great. And hopefully, you’ ll have a great support system that will keep you accountable and on track when you’ ve had your fun.”
“ The TOM trails are spectacular. They’ re not easy, but not too challenging, either, and showcase what trail running in the Western Cape is all about.”
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