The Trail Chasers
Hosted by Dean Horwitz a trail running enthusiast, who started his journey in 2022, Dean has experienced the transformative power of chasing trails firsthand. Fuelled by a passion for trail running and a knack for connecting with fellow trail chasers, Dean created this podcast to merge both interests.
This podcast is all about embracing the adventure, community, and self-discovery that comes with trail running. Join Dean on a journey of exploration and discovery, where you’ll learn about the world of trail running together. No matter if you’re a seasoned trail pro or just lacing up your shoes for the first time, this podcast is for you.
Whether it’s the exhilarating view from a mountain peak or the camaraderie and making new friends with fellow trail runners, Dean is here to guide you through it all.
The Trail Chasers
Zane Schmahl: Chasing Distance—What to Expect When the Trail Gets Longer
“You don’t have to know the whole route. You just need to take the first step.”
What if chasing distance wasn’t just about going further—but about finding freedom, learning what you’re made of, and getting wonderfully, beautifully lost along the way?
In this episode of Trail Chasers, we sit down with Zane Schmahl—trail race director, adventure racer, and co-founder of the legendary MUT (Mountain Ultra-Trail) in George. From running his first Otter to directing Africa’s only UTMB World Series race, Zane shares what it takes to move from your first short race into longer, more remote, and more meaningful challenges. This one’s all about discovery—of new trails, bigger goals, and yourself.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
✅ Why showing up undercooked might cost you—but sometimes teaches you more 💥
✅ How to find new trails and build your sense of direction as a beginner 🧭
✅ What to pack (and what to always carry, just in case) 🎒
✅ How MUT went from a 60km dream to a global-stage race with runners from 45+ countries 🌍
✅ The real reason preparation matters—and what gear mistakes to avoid in your first long run ⚠️
✅ How trail running can evolve from sport to lifestyle to full-blown life mission 🚀
🥾 Got a story of your first long run—whether you flew, flopped, or found something unexpected?
DM us or tag @trailchaserspod. We love hearing how your trail got longer.
🎙 Season 3 is sponsored by Gilnokie Socks 🧦
Visit gilnokie.com and use code TRAILCHASERS for 20% off your first order.
📩 If this episode hit home, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone eyeing their first ultra—because it’s time to go the distance.