Grant Bain, co-founder of The Cows and champion for childhood cancer support, is remembered for his legacy of love, community and over R60-million raised for CHOC.
South Africa (07 August 2025) – South Africa has lost a great man. Grant Bain wasn’t just a co-founder of The Cows; he was the heartbeat of a national movement that turned personal tragedy into powerful purpose. For nearly two decades, he dedicated his life to raising awareness and funds for childhood cancer support, supporting the efforts of the CHOC Childhood Cancer Foundation SA. And in doing so, he changed lives.
Together with his wife Kerrin, Grant helped create The Cows in memory of their daughter Jess. What began as a way to honour one child’s life grew into something far greater. It became a joyful, unstoppable force that has now raised over R60-million to support children, teenagers and families affected by cancer or life-threatening blood disorders.
The Cows are an entire community. They are a wild, kind, outrageous, devoted herd that took Grant’s energy and ran with it. Whether racing in full cow-print kit, cheering from the sidelines or sharing stories of strength, The Cows became a symbol of what love in action can look like.
Grant’s own journey with cancer was long and courageous, and in the end, he passed surrounded by his family. He was a father, a husband, a friend, a visionary, and a man who made room for light in even the darkest spaces.
As The Cows shared in their tribute:
“Together Grant and Kerrin were the fundamental driving force behind the birth of The COWS, founded in memory of their daughter, Jess… Nearly 18 years on, and with over R60 million raised, The COWS have become a symbol of hope, community, and unwavering commitment… We will continue to grow the legacy you have built and all that it stands for.”
His legacy will live on in every event the Cows take part in, in every young life CHOC touches, and in the way his family continue to champion every cause close to his heart.
To Kerrin, Ethan, the Bain family and all who knew and loved him, we share our deepest condolences. We honour the life Grant lived, the people he inspired, and the legacy he leaves behind.
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This Grade 2 Teacher Is Running Her Socks Off for Vrygrond's Pets!Grant’s story reminds us that courage isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like showing up year after year, building something meaningful from heartbreak, and leaving behind a legacy that helps others heal. He may have started The Cows in memory of his daughter, but what he created gave life to so many. And that spirit, that joyful defiance in the face of loss, will keep running, cycling, swimming and moooving in his honour.
Grant, rest peacefully, and run free with your girls. The herd will keep running for you.
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