A family is mourning the loss of an inspirational trail runner, father and husband who passed away on his 47th birthday after setting out on a 47km run at Constantia Nek on Thursday 6 August.

George de Rock, transition coach and mentor, launched his birthday challenge to celebrate life and resilience and demonstrate his courage, gratitude and love for the trails

He had planned a 47km trail run at Constantia Nek in Cape Town, his longest trail run ever.

On the morning of the run, despite living with a chronic condition, he posted a heartfelt message on Facebook encouraging people to “step outside their comfort zone”.

Inspirational message

He added that as a trail runner, he’s “learned that the finish line is never guaranteed. It has to be earned. Will I finish? Honestly… I don’t know. But I know this: if I don’t start, I’ll never find out.

“So the time has just changed to 06:08:47. This might not mean much to you guys but to me it does as it’s my 47th birthday. And even though it’s raining and I’m not supposed to run in the rain, I’ve set myself this challenge for this day. I’m going to attempt to run 47km for my birthday and I’m starting it right now at 8 minutes past 6. Wish me luck,” he posted.

The trail running community and the Eerste River radio station have all paid tribute to a man who inspired everyone around him and never stopped chasing big goals.

“Today isn’t about proving anything to anyone else. It’s about celebrating another year of life by doing something that scares me, stretches me, and reminds me how grateful I am to still be able to chase big goals,” De Rock said in his last Facebook post.

Lasting legacy

De Rock became known for his perseverance, encouragement, and unwavering positivity. All who knew him will carry his spirit in their hearts.

The trail running community has paid tribute to a man who inspired everyone around him and never stopped chasing big goals.

His wife Yolanda confirmed that De Rock had fallen during his 47km run at Constantia Nek and had died.

She said the family is devastated and needs time to process everything.

De Rock’s legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him to embrace life fully, with courage and gratitude.

There are reports that the trail running fraternity is planning a memorial run in his honour. Details will follow once the family confirms arrangements.

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