“Her effort, career, and all that she achieved will remain in the memory of our sports community,” the Felipe Fierro Classic wrote in a tribute on Instagram

NEED TO KNOW

• Marianne von Gierke, a 40-year-old Chilean bodybuilder, died on Wednesday, Oct. 14
• Two weeks prior to her death, von Gierke finished in 13th place during the women’s physique category of a fitness competition
• “We will remember her for her dedication, discipline, and for taking her talent to the Mr. Olympia stage,” the Felipe Fierro Classic wrote in a tribute on Instagram

A bodybuilder is dead just two weeks after competing in a fitness competition. She was 40.

On Wednesday, Oct. 14, the Felipe Fierro Classic announced that Marianne von Gierke died. A spokesperson wrote on Instagram, “We will remember her for her dedication, discipline, and for taking her talent to the Mr. Olympia stage, leaving a legacy in her category and inspiring those who shared this passion with her.”

They added of von Gierke, “Her effort, career, and all that she achieved will remain in the memory of our sports community.”

“We send our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, friends, and all those who mourn her passing,” the Felipe Fierro Classic spokesperson’s tribute continued. “We stand with you in respect and affection during this difficult time. May her legacy endure, and may she rest in peace.”

Two weeks before her death, von Gierke finished in 13th place in the women’s physique category of her latest competition, according to News.com.au.

In 2024, she competed in the competition for the first time, when she finished in 16th place. 

Prior to competing, von Gierke earned the Women’s Physique crown at Rising Phoenix Arizona Pro in August, garnering a rare “perfect” judging scorecard of three points, per Argentine newspaper Clarin.

Her victory granted her direct qualification into the latest competition.

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The late athlete is survived by her 11-year-old son and her partner of 10 years, Juan Cofré García, Clarin reported.

In an Instagram tribute to her boyfriend three days before her death, von Gierke wrote, “Behind every competition, there’s also an effort that doesn’t appear in the photos: emotional support, psychological guidance, financial investment, shared decisions, and a life that often revolves around this sport.”

“Thank you for believing in me, even when the road gets tough,” she continued. “For understanding this passion, experiencing it with me, and feeling every challenge as if it were yours too. Bodybuilding is my passion, but sharing it with you makes this whole journey even more special.”

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