There are many ways to describe the legacy of Ian Turner, including this memory from a former competitive swimmer, James Clarke, who trained under his guidance for a short while many years ago: "Do you want 10p to ring your Mum?"... a coach that really treated swimmers as people first and athletes second...".

That's a comment that speaks highly of Ian in a way similar plaudits have been paid to a great many coaches down the decades; a remark that transcends any success the coach's charges may or may not have had at the deep end of the sport as national teamsters in global, continental and domestic waters.

It's the place where the role of the athlete, coach, parents, siblings, wider family and entourage, club pride and the stuff that alchemises to belonging and inspiration merge into one common status and bond: human.

At the pinnacle of experience, the teacher, regardless of the level of competitive success achieved, impacts the life of the pupil by emphasising long-term self-improvement and transformation towards the best version of coach and coached. Instilling a love of learning; fostering a lifelong, passionate curiosity in a student; building confidence and resilience in the face of challenge of a kind that elevates if not dodged or excused away; cultivating a growth mindset that sees the pupil attribute success to effort rather than innate ability; making learning meaningful and relevant; finding the right balance between high, yet supportive, expectations for all learners; guiding towards greater education that draws attention to wider-world human achievements and connections that can and do lead to more growth long after the last race is swum.

Those are just some of the less-mentioned qualities and achievements that have formed a part of the spirit and legacy of many coaches down the decades. Ian Turner is a cherished and honoured member of that club, and one of those who excelled in the cauldron of excellence in performance sport.

If the international (Olympic, World, European and British) success of the well-known Paul Palmer (all the way to Olympic, World, European and Commonwealth (England) podiums, backstroke ace Sarah Price, multi-commonwealth medallist Mel Marshall, and one of the big Smart-Track squad members, Lizzie Simmonds (the latter two as their development coach), among others, represents the surface view of merit at the heights of the sport Ian was passionate about, we must dive deeper to see the fuller extent of coach Turner's long-lasting impact in elite sport.

We can't cover the whole ocean but here are some examples of fantastic waves upon waves upon waves.

Let's start with Paul Palmer, but not just with the silver he won in the 1996 Olympic 400m free final behind New Zealand's Danyon Loader, not just the bronze he won in the same event at 1998 Worlds at the dawn of the era of Australian giants-in-the-making Ian Thorpe and Grant Hackett. Let's focus on two aspects that speak to spill from the thrill:

• The sports education and spirit at the heart of Palmer that spoke to the work and culture and mindset instilled in him by Turner. That day in Atlanta was worth gold for many more reasons than the silver round Palmer's neck: he emerged to tell the media that it was a great result in spite of the lack of facilities, the 25-yard pool, the Everest of commitment held together by a shoestring of funding. Imagine what Great Britain could do with more support. His voice Wass heard by then UK Prime Minister John Major, and the discussions that followed led to the creation of a ring-fenced National Lottery that would help bring professional work conditions to people already working in professional ways but not wages. Ian Turner's energy is a part of that wave, which swept over all Olympic sports and underpinned a recovery and rise in Britain's standing in Olympic competition across many sports.

• The bonding and passing on of 4x200 knowledge, experience, ambition and passion in the Britain ranks, sweat and tears washed in a blood bond of this brotherhood (a short extract from our archive on the subject):

The men's 4x200m gold in both Tokyo and Paris is down to the work of the prevailing swimmers and those they work with. That doesn't mean the past and the dedication of those seeking to move through the ranks is irrelevant.

Paul Palmer was a pioneer in his day, helping to raise the bar in domestic racing and calling on mates to step up and take pride.

Snap Robbie Renwick, one of those Scott looks up to and learned from. In the brotherhoods below, hard to think of a single one of these swimmers who was not disappointed with what they got: none were satisfied with less that the podium and all wanted gold - and a fair few had reason to wonder whether some of those finishing ahead of them were as clean as they ought to be:

• 1996: Paul Palmer; Andrew Clayton; Mark Stevens; James Salter - 5th, 1.03 off the podium
• 2000: Edward Sinclair; Paul Palmer; Marc Spackman; James Salter - 5th 0.28sec off the podium.
• 2004: Simon Burnett; Gavin Meadows; David O'Brien Ross Davenport - 4th 0.77sec off the podium

At which point, here are the words spoken by Ian Turner after he had returned home from those Games in Athens as men's team coach reflecting on the highs and lows Great Britain had experienced:

I'm now in Manchester, preparing for the short-course championships. It's hard for some of the swimmers who have not swum so well in Athens. But for me it's only now that I can begin to have some perspective on the Olympic experience. When you're out there as a coach the Olympics are not enjoyable. It's a job. You have to learn to keep your personality on a middle plane, even after a very good result, because the next one could be a massive disappointment.

This is my fifth games and a meet like this has highs and lows like all the others I've been to. But there's no doubt that in swimming we've moved on considerably since Sydney. I know there were high expectations for us after the world championships last year but you just can't compare the Olympic experience with the worlds.

For one thing, in the worlds we stay in the more controlled environment of a hotel. At the games the village is really a town. Afterwards it will consist of 20,000 people. Of course there are distractions: you can eat any food you want any time of the day and you see your heroes, like Ian Thorpe, in the dining hall practically every day. So getting yourself up to race them is a challenge.

My games highlight was watching David Davies in the 1500m. He set the world alight with his heat. I'm not absolutely sure but I believe that only two men have swum under 15 minutes in both heat and final. We'd invested a lot in that boy. Bill Sweetenham had done well to get hold of the Aussie physiologist Bob Treffene to work with our distance swimmers and that paid off.

The down side for me was the disappointment of James Goddard, who had silver or bronze written all over him after his semi. That expectation led him to change his tactics, which let him down in the last 25m. But I took a great deal of pleasure from the seventh place of my 4x200m relay team; they have come on so far.

• 2008: David Carry Andrew Hunter; Robbie Renwick; Ross Davenport - 6th 0.94sec off the podium
• 2012: Robbie Renwick; Ieuan Lloyd; Rob Bale; Ross Davenport - 6th, 3.03sec off the podium
• 2016: Stephen Milne; Duncan Scott; Dan Wallace; James Guy; Robbie Renwick
• 2020ne: Tom Dean (1:45.72); James Guy (1:44.40); Matt Richards (1:45.01); Duncan Scott (1:43.45) Calum Jarvis [heats] 6:58.58 ER
• 2024: James Guy (1:45.09); Tom Dean (1:45.28); Matt Richards (1:45.11) Duncan Scott (1:43.95) - heats: Jack McMillan, Kieran Bird - 6:59.43

And so we come to one of those and another of Turner's pupils: Marc Spackman.

Spackman In Short:

• Spackman competed for the City of Lincoln Pentaqua from 1983 to 1997 and the University of Bath 1997-2003, in both programs under Ian Turner in his capacity as club-to- Great Britain Olympic team Head Coach
• In international waters, he finished:
  5th with Great Britain in the 4x200 freestyle in a British-record 7:12.98 at Sydney 2000; 4th with Great Britain mates Edward Sinclair, Paul Palmer and Jamie Salter in the 4x200m free at the Fukuoka 2001 World Championships; silver for he same quartet in the 4x200m for GBR at the World s/c championships in Athens, 2000, in a European and British record of 7:03.06, a year after playing a role in the silver for GBR at the World s/c titles in Hong Kong. His international podium debut was golden, as a member of the GBR 4x100 free relay at the 1997 European Junior Championships in Glasgow with Matthew Kidd, Matt German and Danny Wilks in a Euro and GB junior record of 3:24.83.
• After ending his swimming career in 2003, he studied Art and Design foundation degree at the City of Bath College and advanced to Nottingham Trent University to study Graphic Design graduating in 2006 with honours.
• During University, Spackman began coaching at the Lincoln Vulcans swimming club, initially as Assistant Coach and then as Head Coach in 2006.
• His own charges included Lizzie Simmonds, a quadruple Gold medallist and record-breaker at the 2007 European Junior Championships who would go on to win World Championship silver in a European Record over 200m back, a score of European and Commonwealth medals (England) and, after returning, became the chair the British Olympic Association’s Athletes’ Commission. Spackman also coached Paralympic champion and World Record holder Robert Welbourn and Olympian and European Junior silver medalist Sophie Allen.
• In 2009, he moved on to the Borough of Harrow SC (formerly Harrow and Wealdstone Swimming Club)
• In 2014, Spackman became the Elite Performance Coach at The Royal Wolverhampton School Swimming Club, where, along the years, he coached Alice Dearing, Tom Derbyshire and Matthew Richards, who all won medals in the European Junior Championships.
• In 2019, Spackman became a coach on The New York Breakers team in the pioneering International Swimming League (ISL).
• In 2021, Richards, still a teen, claimed Olympic gold with Tom Dean, James Guy and Duncan Scott in the 4x200m freestyle in Tokyo
• On 1 June 2023, Spackman took over as Head Coach of Etobicoke Swim Club in Canada, where the hall of fame includes Cheryl Gibson, Victor Davis, Amanda Reason, Brittany MacLean, and, lately from her development days, Summer McIntosh, star hauler of the women's program at the Paris 2024 Olympics (3 golds, 1 silver) and Singapore 2025 (four golds, 1 bronze).
• In 2024, Richards joined the same quartet as the first same-four quartet in Olympic swimming history to retain a relay crown since it all began in 1896; and was less than a 0.05 blink-of-an-eye from gold in the solo 200m free.

All of that is down to those who achieved those results, but in every case the energy and momentum of Ian Turner is present. That's legacy.

Which brings us to the next example of a wave, via Mike Peyrebrune, British coach, sports scientist and a former training partner of mine for a time, under my dad's guidance.

You can read a key part of the Great Britain 4x200m story and coach Turner's towering role in an extract from an SOS interview with Peyrebrune, in our first take on Ian's passing earlier this day:

Swimming Mourns Ian Turner, Mentor To Paul Palmer & Guide On Britain’s Long & Winding Road To 4x200 Glory

“Ian Turner an absolute master of coaching from the 1980 ; 1990 and 2000’s. Ian tread where few others dared and took down barriers that stood in the way of many British and English athletes and national staff opening up new horizons for so many who dared to be better than the system permitted.”

State Of Swimming +Craig Lord

Peyrebrune was among those paying tribute to Ian today. He told SOS:

Ian was a larger than life character - passionate about swimming and an excellent leader. He led by example and brought groups of swimmers and staff together with purpose and humour.

I loved working with him, from our leadership team at the 1998 in KL to the amazing rapport we had on deck as Coach and Scientist from 2003 to 2008. During that time we went on training camps all over the world and were on deck together for EVERY session. We worked very well together, were extremely driven, but always had time for a story and a laugh.

Ian and I also worked on a project together in Singapore in 2013, and again as a consultant to the Chinese Swimming Club when I was Director of Swimming. He continued his work as coach educator, presenter and mentor over the years and has had a huge impact on so many generations of National and World Class swimmers.

I will miss the discussions, stories, analysis and laughter we shared and send love and condolences to Helen, the families and worldwide network of friends. Thank you and rest in peace Ian, a great friend, colleague and mentor.

A short note of my own to add to the many memories of Ian: he was a gentleman, a coach who always greeted me with a smile, a hand extended, an arm on shoulder as he asked how I was, how my dad was and other sincere pleasantries of life before sharing his wisdom, his concerns, his take on the barriers in any given challenge, his quiet but determined call for governors to get a grip and match the professionalism of those providing the show. He had something of the best of military about him: calm and even cool when the heat was on (at least outwardly), he asked of others, including his athletes, the same high standards of work ethic, dedication and respect for others that were hallmarks of his presence on the poolside. He was, as do many have said to me down the decades, "a lovely man".

His departure from Britain was a great loss to the national program, and although his legacy was well in place by then, the kind of momentum and good that can come from better management of and respect for the working environment of athletes and coaches took two steps back on the cusp of what could have been one giant leap forward. His departure from life all too soon is a matter of deep sorrow for the many who will miss him sorely.

Ian's death was unexpected and sudden. He is survived by his partner Helen, and his daughters Sarah and Laura from his first marriage. Sincere condolences, and may Ian rest in peace.

There are many more ways of telling the swimming and coaching story of Ian Turner, and many who worked with him have related some of their memories of the man today in various social media places, most notable the posts of the BSCA. Here are a few memories and messages of condolence:

From The BSCA and Bill Sweetenham, in our earlier post:

Swimming Mourns Ian Turner, Mentor To Paul Palmer & Guide On Britain’s Long & Winding Road To 4x200 Glory

“Ian Turner an absolute master of coaching from the 1980 ; 1990 and 2000’s. Ian tread where few others dared and took down barriers that stood in the way of many British and English athletes and national staff opening up new horizons for so many who dared to be better than the system permitted.”

State Of Swimming +Craig Lord

City of Lincoln Pentaqua SC

"A very sad day for the City of Lincoln Pentaqua Swimming Club, as we learn of a former head coach passing. Ian Turner was a founding member of the club in 1972, and was the head coach until the 90's. During his time as head coach, he produced 6 Olympians, with the first in 1988 and all the way through to 2000. After the 1996 Olympics, he went on to become a coach with the British team and beyond this, worked as head of swimming in Singapore, before returning to the City of Lincoln Pentaqua for a second period of coaching before his retirement. Everyone who has been coached by Ian will remember his positive attitude towards all swimmers to help them become the best swimmers they can be. A much loved, fun, charismatic genius of a coach will be missed by all who knew him and we send our love to his family and close friends. Details of Ian's funeral will be posted on here in due course, but for now, Mr T, you are already being missed."

Former GB head coach Terry Denison - I am very sorry to hear of Ian’s passing. My sincere condolences to Ian’s family and friends.

Coach Brian Sweeney - And someone who would happily meet and chat and share his insight, all with good humour and a story. Many thanks Mr Turner. May you RIP. -

Margie Kelly, Olympic medallist and coach - RIP Ian - xx

Gaynor Willis, Olympian - Sad news, another great gone too soon. Xx

Coach Kevin Ayers - Rip my friend

Coach David Lyles

Saddened and sorry to hear this. Ian was my boss, my mentor and my friend since we first worked together on the Mycil 2000 programme at Crystal Palace in the mid 90s. He taught me so much, and inspired so many coaches and swimmers throughout his career. He showed compassion and leadership, was firm but fair and always had a glint in his eye that let him get away with far more than he probably should have. I have so many great stories and fond memories of Ian, from pulling a whistle from his tiny Speedos in Perth to trying to figure out how to open his shiny new British Swimming laptop in KL '98. Ian was a true legend and a gentleman, and were it not for his encouragement and support, I would not have been brave enough to leave the UK over 20 years ago and start my incredible life journey. Thank you Ian for you jokes, your wisdom and for selecting this very young, ambitious 20-something coach back in 1996 to build our own 'Pool of Dreams' at Bath. Ian maybe gone, but he will never be forgotten - R.I.P. old friend

Coach Rhys Gormley - Condolences to the family. A great man, coach and leader. RIP Ian.

Julie Johnston, Senior Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Psychology at Nottingham Trent University - Oh I’m so sad to read this. He was a fantastic coach and such a lovely man! Loved him on poolside in Loughborough all those years ago. Always made me feel included. Condolences to his family xx

Coach Kevin Brooks - Very sad news - a legend of a coach in our sport - condolences to his family, friends and former swimmers 🙏

Coach Glenn Smith, BSCA Ltd Chair -

This is very sad news. I spent many hours in the early 2000s in Loughborough where Ian was kind enough to pass some of his huge knowledge onto me. Ive never forgotten it. Condolences to Ian's family and all his swimming friends.

Brenda Bland, former GB team manager and chaperone - Very sad - worked with Ian for so many years through swim 2000 development camps through to Sydney 2000 and beyond - knowledgeable, inspirational and a great coach. RIP Ian

Dawn Peart - GB Team Manager - Such sad news worked with Ian on many international camps and comps from 2000-2007 - condolences to the family and everyone he was in contact with over the many years RIP Ian gone but never forgotten 💔

Coach Kevin Renshaw - Incredibly sad news. It was an honour to work with Ian between 2005 and 2008 in Loughborough. RIP

Coach Jon Rudd

"Raising a glass to an old friend tonight. A guy that gave me opportunity and believed in me - and who helped me understand my profession a little more every time I sat down with him. Thank you Ian Turner for all you did for me and rest in peace my good friend"

Olympic medallist and Coach Martyn Woodroffe - RIP Ian, a colleague mentor and friend

Coach Ian Oliver - RIP Ian A great coach very supportive and good to talk to and give advise

Coach Dave Champion - There aren’t enough words … such sad news

Coach Nick Sellwood - Very sad news. A really good man. Condolences to his family

Jaime Ormshaw Olympian - Such sad news. Ian was funny and great to be around. What a gent!

Coach Matt Tutton - Condolences to Ian's family and swimming friends.

Coach Fran Ronan - So sad to lose such a great man. A fantastic coach whom I was lucky to be mentored by in Bath . Most of all a lovely man who will be missed. Sincere condolences to his family and former swimmers and colleagues

Coach John Stout - Always had time for me as a younger coach, very friendly, funny and honest. My condolences to the family at this sad news.

Coach Mike Parker - RIP Ian mentor and friend condolences to his family

Gary Francis, targeted Programme Manager, Swimming New Zealand - I’m absolutely gutted to hear this very sad news. Ian was an inspiration to so many and truly great friend. My sincerest condolences to all his family those closest to him.

Coach Ben Ambrose - This is absolutely devastating news. I had the pleasure of learning from Ian as my mentor for the last 12 months at my local swim club. Incredible person and such an honour to have met him ❤️
·
James Clarke, former swimmer: RIP Coach.

"Do you want 10p to ring your Mum?"... a coach that really treated swimmers as people first and athletes second. He was a coach that got me out of my plateaus and swimming at my fastest ever. I was gutted when he moved on from Loughborough having only spent 6 months with him, but they were the the best 6 months of swimmer/coach relationship I ever had. Sad to hear this news, the World has lost a coaching legend."

Coach (and swimmer) Aloysius Yeo:

Ian, it was truly an honour to have worked alongside you. A coach I deeply respect, for your passion, humility and unwavering commitment to the athletes and the sport, even while courageously battling cancer and undergoing treatment at the same time. Thank you for the lessons, conversations and memories. Grateful our paths crossed and for the journey shared together. Good bye for now, till we meet again and cheers 🍻 Don’t forget our appointment to catch Man U vs Liverpool!

Coach Simon Jones

RIP Ian. A gentleman, educator and someone willing to share knowledge always. On my first GB staff call-up back in 2001, Ian was the Head Men's Coach and scared the hell outta me. Only for me to find he had a heart of gold and truly cared about his swimmers. To beers in Singapore, and shared emails of sets, you'll be missed Ian.

Coach Henk Greupink - Thanks for all Ian. Condolences to family and friends

Coaching International's Tomas Fronek: Will miss you mate - RIP