Minister Marais extends condolences after passing of Abrie de Swardt

The Western Cape Government is saddened by the passing of one of the sporting community’s greatest champions, Abrie de Swardt.

Abrie committed the better part of his lifetime to sport and the development of athletes. He served on various athletics bodies, and was very involved in the promotion of athletics in the district, and the province at large. Internationally known as an athletics coach, Abrie travelled to the Olympic Games as coach to the South African National Athletics team.

Abrie’s love of sport was well known and personified to the end as he still participated in a rowing competition this past weekend in George. The Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport recognized his contribution to sport in our province and in 2009 he was honoured as a Western Cape Provincial Sports Legend.

Minister Marais said, “Our heartfelt condolences go to Abrie’s family, friends and his sporting community. We are grateful for all he did for sport and recreation in our province. His presence sure will be missed but his legacy will live on as inspiration for many young athletes to come”.