The death of one of motorsport’s most admired characters has left South Africans shocked and in mourning.
Tributes poured in on Monday morning as the Nelson Mandela Foundation announced that Gugu Zulu tragically lost his life earlier that morning while attempting to summit Mount Kilimanjaro with his wife Letshego, as part of the Trek4Mandela initiative.
While full details on how he died were not known, the foundation said that Gugu had experienced problems breathing and that the medical team supporting the trek had put him on a drip and descended the mountain with him.
The founder of the Imbumba Foundation, who was with Gugu Zulu, has described the final moments of his life, saying his wife Letshego ‘did everything for him’ in his final moments.
“She was constantly checking on him and making sure he was okay. When his breathing became very heavy, she alerted the medical teams.”
Speaking to TMG Entertainment from Tanzania, Richard Mabaso said the team has been left devastated by the death of Zulu, describing his last moments. In a tender recollection of Zulu’s final moments with his wife, Mabaso said she kept a constant eye on him.
“She was with him all the time. She also put a pillow under his head to make sure that he was more comfortable. It’s been devastating. We are all shocked.”
Tributes from fans and fellow racing drivers show just how loved and respected this larger-than-life character really was. These are just a few of the thousands of tributes that poured in.
“Gugu was a larger than life character, always ready with a quick smile and well-liked by all who came into contact with him. His tragic passing leaves a void that can never be filled.” – Motorsport South Africa (MSA)
“I am devastated. I knew him well. I recruited him to climb Kilimanjaro. The last thing he said to me at the airport before he left last week was that he wanted to speak about doing other Mandela Day projects. I feel a huge sense of loss.” – Sello Hatang, Nelson Mandela Foundation CEO
“Shocked beyond measure… RIP Gugu Zulu, an amazing man and a great ambassador for South Africa… During my time spent with him, I knew Gugu as a genuinely caring person that would go out of his way for everyone!! My condolences to his whole family, wife and baby girl. Today is a really sad day…” Kelvin van der Linde, racing driver
“So sad to hear about the passing of @GuguZulu this morning. A true gentleman and great ambassador for motorsport. RIP Gugs.” – Giniel de Villiers, Dakar-winning rally driver
“Absolutely devastated about the death of my friend and former colleague Gugu Zulu. He was a true inspiration and this is a huge loss not only for the motorsport fraternity but also for our nation. May his legacy inspire others to reach the same heights in whatever their endeavours. Deepest condolences to Letshego, little Lelethu and the rest of his family and friends. RIP, brother.” – Hendrik Verwoerd, motorsport presenter
“Gugu Zulu You were a true legend, a great friend and champion! RIP my brother! To the Zulu family may the good Lord be with you at this time!” – Lerato Matebese, motoring journalist:
“A true gentleman, Gugu will be remembered for his tenacity and determination behind the wheel, and for his humility and warmth towards everyone he met. South Africa has lost a legend.” – SA Guild of motoring journalists
Twitter has also been set alight with tributes and condolences for the South African hero. His name has been the number one trending topic the entire day.
Heartbreaking news about #GuguZulu's passing. A truly inspiring soul. Love and comfort to his wife and family. May he rest in peace.
— Khanyi Dhlomo (@KhanyiDhlomo) July 18, 2016
My heart is broken. My friend @GuguZulu passed away on Kilimanjaro today. I have no words. Sending you love and light @letshegom.
— Brent Lindeque (@BrentLindeque) July 18, 2016
As a 2015 @Trek4Mandela climber I'm numbed by the news of the death of #guguzulu on Kilimanjaro.My hearts with his wife & the other climbers
— Leanne Manas (@LeanneManas) July 18, 2016
A huge piece of the world is missing today. Our sincere prayers with u @letshegom . Into His hands this incredible man. #GuguZulu
— NICO PANAGIO (@NicoPanagio) July 18, 2016
So sad to hear about the passing of a friend, and an inspiration to so many. Condolences to his family. Rest in peace my friend @GuguZulu 😥
— Gareth Cliff (@GarethCliff) July 18, 2016
Honestly one of the nicest humans I have ever met. Down to earth, friendly, so likable. Absolutely devastated. Is this for real? #GuguZulu
— Jason Von Berg (@JasonVonBerg) July 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/WhackheadS/status/754962988763938816
We’re saddened by the loss of the fastest brother in our Volkswagen family. Forever in our hearts. #GuguZulu pic.twitter.com/wvSt5t7OzK
— VolkswagenSA (@VolkswagenSA) July 18, 2016
Of mountains. And men. RIP #GuguZulu, a revving champion of a South African. Climbing for Mandela. https://t.co/NULhaOpm4T
— Ferial Haffajee (@ferialhaffajee) July 18, 2016
The GoodThingsGuy team offer their sincerest condolences. Gugu Zulu was a hero and an inspiration to so many… his incredible character will live on in his memory.
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