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
Daniel Claassen: Beyond the Finish Line—Balancing Work, Life & Running at the Highest Level
💭 “I try to put my life into different boxes — work, running, social, family — and give each one the time it deserves. Because if everything overlaps, life just becomes chaos.” — Daniel Claassen
What does balance really look like when you’re working full-time, running professionally, and still competing on the world stage?
In this episode of Trail Chasers (recorded earlier this year before Daniel achieved his incredible 5th place at UTMB TDS), host Dean Horwitz is joined by Daniel Claassen — South African trail runner, Red Bull Category Manager, and Adidas Terrex athlete — for a deep dive into balance, consistency, and resilience.
From childhood runs with his dad to chasing his dream of a sub-12hr finish at UTMB CCC, Daniel shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the mistakes that taught him the most, and how he keeps training, work, and life in harmony.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ How Daniel balances his full-time Red Bull career with elite-level racing for Adidas Terrex
✅ Why consistency matters more than chasing mileage
✅ Lessons from burnout, mistakes, and finding perspective
✅ The mindset that carried him to his best CCC performance
✅ Why balance is the foundation of long-term running success
💬 Whether you’re juggling training with work, family, or big dreams, Daniel’s story proves that balance is both the challenge and the key to growth.
🎙 Trail Chasers Season 3 is proudly sponsored by:
🧦 Gilnokie Socks – gilnokie.com
| Use code TRAILCHASERS for 20% off
🕶 Boonies Sunglasses – boonies.co.za
| Adventure-ready eyewear for every runner
📩 Enjoying the season? Subscribe, review, and tag us on Instagram @trailchaserspod
to share how you manage balance in your life.