Following in the footsteps of cyclist Cherise Willeit, who won the 2019 Cape Town Cycle Tour nine months after giving birth, Cape Town ultra trail runner Landie Greyling ran herself into second position at the 2019 South African Trail Championship on Saturday, just six months after her son’s birth.
Landie, who lives in Stellenbosch with her trail runner husband Christiaan and their son Christopher, was six minutes behind winner Nicolette Griffioen in the 40 km Hout Bay Trail Challenge.
“It was much tougher than I remember, probably because I have not done much running in the mountains lately,” said Greyling of the race, which she described as one of the toughest but most beautiful trails in the Western Cape. “I couldn’t be happier with my second place at SA Champs, especially six months after little Christopher’s birth. It’s a great start and I gave it my very best, while enjoying spending time in my happy place.”
“This was my longest run to date as juggling being a mom and breastfeeding, even when you are expressing, means the longer runs are a logistical feat!” Landie said.
Greyling and her husband are training for a 60km trail race in Spain in April, Penyaglosa Trails. “It is the first time we are attempting this race, which is part of the World Championships circuit. I am as ready as can be!” Landie said.
The overall ladies’ winners were:
1st: Nicolette Griffioen 4:58:34
2nd: Landie Greyling 5:04:08
3rd: Naomi Brand 5:14:42
