Veteran athlete Mariet Geyer reflects on a record-breaking year of growth and purpose

Glen Marais athlete Mariet Geyer (66) has described 2025 as a year of growth, discipline and purpose, both on and off the track.

She said the year was marked by national honours, record-breaking performances and personal challenges, adding that her success came from focusing on far more than just physical training.

“In the months leading up to the South African Athletics Championships, my coach and I focused on more than just training sessions and race strategies,” said Geyer.

“We concentrated on three pillars, the physical, the emotional and the spiritual, each playing an equally vital role in shaping me as an athlete.

“The physical sharpened my body, the emotional strengthened my mindset, and the spiritual kept me grounded with purpose and faith.

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“Together, these elements built the foundation that carried me onto the track with confidence and resilience.”

Physically, Geyer’s preparation centred on plyometrics training, which focuses on explosive movements that build power in a short period.

Her sessions often included elastic band work, core-strengthening exercises and stair workouts.

“Plyometrics not only improve speed and agility but also enhance overall athletic performance. They are equally valuable for rehabilitation, helping athletes recover and return stronger after injuries,” she said.

Her training also extends beyond the track. “I incorporate race walking and cross-country, which demand endurance, technique and strength in different ways. Including these disciplines helps me become a more versatile and well-rounded athlete,” said Geyer.

Emotionally, she said her focus was on discipline and mental protection.

“I learned to concentrate only on what needed to be done in that moment, whether it was that day’s workout or a single training session. Protecting my mindset is just as important as training my body.”

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Spiritually, Geyer said her faith is at the core of everything she does.

“It gives me strength beyond what physical training alone can provide. Before races, and even during the toughest workouts, I draw on that inner connection to stay grounded and purposeful.

“My faith reminds me that athletics is not just about winning medals, but about running with gratitude, discipline and integrity. It’s the anchor that carries me through challenges and lifts me in moments of victory.”

Geyer arrived at the South African Athletics Championships feeling fully prepared.

“I knew I had always given my best in training, and the trust between my coach and me was unwavering,” she said.

Her hard work paid off with significant achievements. “I am proud to say that I have now received SAMA colours three times, and I am living my dream.

Our relay team also achieved what we had been working towards at the SAMA Championships on May 2, 2025, in Oudtshoorn.”

“We received the SAMA record, which is the South African record, as well as the African record. It took almost five months to officially verify both records, making the achievement more special.”

In addition to the relay success, Geyer earned a silver medal in race walking at the SAMA Championships, while her cross-country team claimed gold at the SA Championships in Middelburg.

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She described the cross-country race as one of the most difficult of her life. A few days before the championships, a dog bit her on her hand.

Despite the pain and challenge, she pushed through the race alongside her team, making the victory even more meaningful.

“Every race, every training session and every moment of focus has brought me closer to the athlete and person I aspire to be,” she said.

Geyer’s guiding motto remains simple: be a better person, become a better athlete.

“We live in a broken world, but the one solid truth I hold on to is that God loves us,” she said.

“That’s why I keep my life private, pray mostly for wisdom, and surround myself with a small, trusted inner circle.”

She hopes her journey inspires others.

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“Focus on your own path, respect others’ goals, and protect your mindset. Consistency, discipline and faith will carry you far.”

Geyer also enjoys sharing moments of inspiration and achievement with her Nedbank running club through Facebook posts, celebrating not just results, but the spirit of athletics and teamwork.

Looking ahead, she remains highly motivated.

“In 2026, I am definitely continuing running and looking forward to track races, cross-country races and plenty of road races,” she said.

She recently achieved podium finishes in the 10km at Kaapsche Hoop, the Chilli Race and the Soweto Race.

Geyer’s dream is to participate in the Golden Games. While she does not yet know how to contact the organisers, it remains a goal she holds close; one that continues to motivate her as she strives for excellence in every discipline.

Beyond sport, Geyer plans to continue her work in life coaching in 2026.