“Tarrin is a fantastic coach. Her training program is realistic and tailored to my capabilities and goals. She provides great advice and information. But above all, she motivates and inspires me to take on challenges. Without her input and guidance, I would not have had the courage nor confidence to enter the races I did.”
Danelle Holl
MADE FOR MOUNTAINS
Embrace the outdoors
Hi, We’re Vert & Dirt Coaching!
We believe that being outdoors is better than being indoors. We believe running is more than just completing a distance. It’s all the fun, tough, beautiful, and brilliant stuff between the start and finish that makes it all worth it. We believe in community and rooting for each other. Whether running saved your life or put some life back into your living, we believe running has the power to change it for the better. We believe in putting yourself out there every time you toe the line. Giving it everything in chasing that summit. Running brave and facing your fears. Challenging yourself to be the best you can be. Finding that flow state, breathing into the moment and letting go of everything holding you back.
We keep things simple. Good people, gorgeous views and great coffee.
Training, racing or adventure. Let us be part of your journey.
“I have been an avid runner for most my life but since I am trained by Tarrin running has a different meaning. I am running stronger than ever. The training programs are challenging but at the same time I look forward to it. My running has improved dramatically thanks to my amazing Coach.”
Alta Tolmay
Training, racing or adventure. Let us be part of your journey.
“I am super happy! Since having Tarrin as my running coach I have been more consistent in training and I think that my running was elevated to another level. I particularly like the clear communication of goals, strategies, session feed back and reasons for particular sessions. I like to know “Why” I am doing a particular exercise. Also the regular feed back on progress is really what keeps motivated when I don’t always feel like going out.”
Her passion for the sport of Ultra running is contagious and I am encouraged by her love for our sport. She makes me want to enter big races and set tough goals, striving to be the best I can be.
I also feel that Tarrin is always keeping up with the latest research and development to give us the best advice and always willing to share her knowledge, not only with regards to running, but also with regards to nutrition, strategy etc.”
Banie Erasmus
About our Coaches
Coach Tarrin
I’m on a journey to pursue mountain tops and finish lines, and passionate about helping others do the same.
As a seasoned ultra trail warrior and coach, I know all about the highs of conquering mountains, the lows that come with injury, and all the wonderful and challenging experiences in between. I’ve been there, done that, and got the scars and race shirts to prove it.
My goal is to help you become a stronger, healthier and happier runner by filling the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. I believe training shouldn’t be a daily chore, and if you fall in love with the process, the outcome will be much more rewarding.
Let me guide you on your running journey – so you can go places you never thought possible.
“Tarrin is a truly one-of-a-kind coach who consistently goes far beyond anything I have ever expected from a coach. I initially trained with her while competing in races, and she continued to support and guide me throughout my twin pregnancy. She took the time to review the evidence and designed personalised prenatal running and strength programmes tailored specifically to my needs.”
“I highly recommend her, especially for anyone seeking coaching that is tailored to the unique needs of women. She has a strong understanding of how hormonal cycles, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, stress, sleep, and life demands influence training capacity and performance. Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, she adapts programmes to the individual and to the season of life they are in. This creates an environment where athletes feel supported rather than pressured, and where long-term health and sustainability are prioritised alongside performance goals. Her approach empowers women to train confidently, listen to their bodies, and build resilience both physically and mentally.”
Erika Mohr-Holland
Coach Albertus
I’m a sport scientist and ultra trail runner, but more than that, I’m someone who loves the process of pushing limits—both physically and mentally. I’ve always believed that we’re capable of far more than we think, and endurance sports have a way of proving that time and time again.
Running for hours in the mountains isn’t just about fitness; it’s about resilience, problem-solving, and learning to embrace discomfort. It’s in those moments—when the body wants to quit, but the mind chooses to keep going—that real growth happens. That’s why I live by the idea that discipline is life’s greatest teacher. Every early morning run, every tough session, and every setback is part of a bigger picture, shaping not just performance but character.
As both an athlete and a scientist, I’m always looking to understand and refine human performance. Whether it’s through research, coaching, or my own experiences, my goal is to help others tap into their full potential—because I know firsthand just how much more we all have to give.
“Coach Albertus has been absolutely incredible. He’s helped me get fitter than I ever thought possible while making the journey enjoyable and motivating. I’ve gained a much better understanding of running and nutrition, and I now feel confident, supported, and excited about my training. He is extremely supportive throughout each stage of my training blocks, which has made a huge difference to my progress.”
Amanda Zietsman
Featured Articles
The Misogi Challenge: Choosing Courage over Certainty
“Tarrin has been an integral part of my running journey. She has helped me go from not being able to run a 5k to doing an under an hour 10k. I’ve also done some awesome trail runs over the years that she has helped me go from pretty much back of the pack to more mid pack runner on trail.”
Nicole Lambon
Podcasts
“Coach Tarrin van Niekerk has been an incredible trail running coach for the past three years. Her guidance, motivation, and deep knowledge of the sport have helped me grow stronger, more confident, and more consistent as an athlete. She has also played a big role in preparing me for road running and mountain biking, always tailoring training to help me perform at my best. Tarrin truly cares about her athletes and goes above and beyond to support and inspire them. I’m really grateful for her coaching and the progress I’ve made.”
Gerrit Pieterse
Click to enquire about our coaching packages
“Tarrin is not only an incredible running coach but also a true motivator. Her quiet, contagious energy inspires you to keep going, even on the toughest days. She is passionate about what she does, and if you trust her program and stay committed, the results will follow. Running a marathon in under four hours was always my dream, and with her guidance, encouragement, and belief in me, I made it happen. She deeply cares about her athletes and always knows how to encourage and uplift you when it matters most.”
Daleen Riekert