The family of George de Rock is mourning after the trail runner died during a trail run at Constantia Nek.

George de Rock, a dedicated trail runner, tragically lost his life at the age of 47 during a trail run at Constantia Nek in Cape Town on Thursday.

What was intended to be a joyful celebration of his birthday on August 6, marked by an ambitious 47km run, has turned into an unimaginable tragedy for his family. George's planned birthday challenge was not just a test of endurance; it symbolised his love for running and his unwavering spirit to embrace life fully.

His wife, Yolanda de Rock, shared the devastating news and said the tragedy was something she never imagined she would have to announce.

“This is the last thing I thought I would be doing this morning,” she said.