Smith was reported missing last Tuesday (October 27) when he did not return from running in Perthshire, and his body was later found near the mountain of Meall Garbh on Thursday (October 29).

The 43-year-old raced at multiple World and European Mountain Running Championships from 2011 to 2017, including an eighth-place finish at the European Championships in 2013 and 10th at the World Championships in 2015 - winning team medals on both occasions.

His highest finish in the mud was 11th at the English National Cross Country Championships.

"On behalf of our entire family, we are devastated to let you know that Chris has lost his life in Glen Lyon," read a family statement.

"He was doing what he loved having spent the previous days having the most special time with [wife and children] Lindsay, Cameron and Alastair.

"We would like to thank everyone for the support they have given us, in particular the mountain rescue teams, emergency services, members of the public and Chris' friends that joined the search.

"We will always treasure his energy, spirit and love.

"Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers."

One of Smith's team mates was Scottish mountain runner and two-time Mountain Running World Cup winner Andrew Douglas, who expressed his gratitude for knowing Smith.

"Chris was a role model for everyone to look up to on the GB mountain running team," Douglas said.

"He was always someone I could go to to settle those pre-race nerves and just have a laugh with.

"But once the starting gun went he was the fiercest of competitors; someone that would always give their all when representing his country.

"His longevity in the sport is something that will always inspire me. 

"I can't believe he's no longer with us, Chris, it's been an absolute honour and privilege to call you a teammate."

Sarah Rowell, team leader for many British mountain running squads, added that Smith was "resilient" to achieve his dream of making the mountain running team.

"A total professional in how he prepared for races and great fun afterwards whatever the result," said Rowell.

"Importantly he had time for everyone and was always ready to help and give advice to those trying to take his place on the team.

"I feel privileged to have known him and supported him on the team, he will be missed by all and our condolences to his family."

The World Mountain Running Association also released a statement saying it was "incredibly saddened" by the news of Smith's death.

Fellow British athlete Marc Scott, who has twice competed in the 5,000 meters at the World Athletics Championship, set up a fundraising page for Scottish Mountain Rescue after Smith went missing, with £6,200 ($8,100/€6,900) raised.