Chris Pillay, South African bodybuilder, dies after battle with COVID-19.
Chris Pillay, an accomplished South African bodybuilder has died after testing positive for COVID-19 on December 26, 2020 according to recent reports. He was checked into the St. Augustine hospital where he died two weeks later. He is survived by his wife Aneesa, two daughters, Shyla and Minal, and five siblings.
Chris Pillay reportedly earned a wide variety of accolades in bodybuilding competitions and was beloved by many in the local bodybuilding community. Beyond competitive bodybuilding, Chris Pillay was also a trainer and co-owner of the Body Guru Gym in Umhlanga, South Africa.
According to the initial report by Independent Online, Abhir Dayaram, co-owner of Body Guru Gym and friend of Chris Pillay claimed that, “He had a fever and he had picked up a chest infection. After two weeks in the hospital, he died on Saturday.”
Chris Pillay was considered a local legend by many in the bodybuilding community in South Africa. Some even considered him one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time. Dayaram explained he was often referred to as the GOAT. However, Pillay was extremely humble. Dayaram continues in his statement to Independent Online:
“However, he would never acknowledge that. Chris was one of the first Indian personal trainers in Durban. His business acumen led to him co-owning the gym and he was committed to the long-term success of the business. He put in heart and soul, to ensure the best training experience for his clients.”
Chris Pillay died not long after celebrating his 50th birthday. Dayaram explains that Pillay, his friends, and family were able to properly celebrate before his passing.
“We recently celebrated his 50th birthday with a few friends. It is hard to believe that he is no more. His unconditional love and dedication to his kids was known to all. He was a devoted father and he often tutored his children to ensure their success in school. They were his pride and joy. We hope to carry on his legacy at the gym – never to be forgotten but rather as an inspiration to us all.”
COVID-19 has taken many lives across the country and significantly impacted the bodybuilding industry as a whole. It led to a wide spread of competition cancellations and postponements in the IFBB pro league. It’s also lead to massive closures of gyms across the world – hurting business owners and preventing athletes from properly training. The news of Chris Pillay’s passing is yet another blow after a challenging year for the world of bodybuilding.
Generation Iron extends our most sincere condolences to the friends and family of Chris Pillay. For the latest bodybuilding news and updates, make sure to follow Generation Iron on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
