Top achiever Kerry Grundlingh dies in Johannesburg cycling crash

Kerry Grundlingh

Johannesburg – Princeton University in the US is mourning the loss of one of its own after the tragic death of first-year student-athlete Kerry Grundlingh, who passed away in a cycling accident in her hometown of Johannesburg.

The 19-year-old, a rising sophomore and standout member of the Princeton women’s open rowing team, was struck by a car while cycling, the university confirmed in a statement released by Princeton Athletics.

“It is with profound sadness that Princeton Athletics shares the tragic news that women’s open rowing student-athlete Kerry Grundlingh ’27 has died in a cycling accident,” the statement read.

Head coach Lori Dauphiny paid tribute to Grundlingh’s remarkable character both on and off the water, calling her an “exceptional rower and student-athlete” who left an indelible impact on those around her.

“The world has lost an amazing young woman with the passing of Kerry Grundlingh,” Dauphiny said.

“She leaves a legacy of her life lived as a tremendous daughter, sister, friend and teammate who constantly gave the best of herself for the betterment of others in each and every daily interaction.”

Grundlingh’s achievements during her brief time with the Tigers were impressive. In just two seasons, she became a two-time Ivy League Championship medalist and competed twice at the NCAA Championships.

In 2024, she contributed to Princeton’s second varsity eight boat, which won bronze at the Ivy League Championships and finished sixth nationally.

This past season, she helped lead the first varsity eight to an Ivy League gold before claiming victory in the Petite Final at the NCAA Championships.

Ford Family Director of Athletics John Mack described the loss as a “shocking tragedy”.

“Kerry embraced everything that being a Princeton student-athlete entails as she competed on the water and thrived in the classroom,” Mack said. “Most importantly, Kerry developed impactful relationships with friends and teammates across campus and around the world. The hearts of everyone associated with Princeton Athletics are with Kerry’s family and friends, her teammates and coaches, and everyone who had the honor of knowing Kerry as we all grieve together.”

Kerry is survived by her parents, Debbie and Francois, and her brother, James.

Princeton Rowing and the broader university community are expected to hold a memorial to honor her life in the coming weeks.

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