The Australian athletics community has paid tribute to legendary jumps coach Gary Bourne, after the long-standing mentor died at the age of 68.
Bourne had a profound impact on athletes during his career and was described as Australia's most successful horizontal jumps coach, guiding several athletes to national records and world championship gold, including long jumpers Bronwyn Thompson and Olympic medallist Mitchell Watt.
READ MORE: Cricket minnows keep World Cup 'dream' alive
READ MORE: I was wrong about Eddie but here's how we fix the mess
READ MORE: Meninga backs Maguire as next Blues coach
"Rest in peace Gary," said Aussie hurdler Michelle Jenneke on social media.
"I'm incredibly lucky to have had this amazing man as my coach and mentor. More than just a great coach he was wise, funny, kind and caring, and we will all miss him dearly. Thank you for everything Gaz."
https://www.instagram.com/p/CzIn_IOBBAK/?utm_source=ig_embed&
Former 400m champion John Steffensen commented: "You will be miss my brother. A true great man, that never judged in my career whilst most did on teams!! Love you Big G".
Running star Genevieve Gregson posted: "A very sad day for Australian athletics. You will be missed. RIP Gary."
2010 Commonwealth gold medallist discus thrower Benn Harradine added: "So much impact and so humble. Always stable and always a handshake away from a good laugh. So proud to say that he has impacted so many people in a magnitude of ways including me and my Dad. RIP Gas, the Bourne Supremacy lives on!"
Athletics Australia president Jane Flemming: "Gary Bourne's passing is an enormous loss to Australian athletics," Flemming said.
"In the world of athletics, Gary was considered a jumps guru.
"He was head coach of the National Jumps Centre at the QAS but was more than a coach. He was also a mentor, educator and a guiding light that led countless athletes to soar to the highest levels of Olympic, World and Commonwealth rankings.
"His dedication, selflessness, unwavering passion and commitment transformed athletes into champions and nurtured individuals into outstanding human beings.
"Gary's legacy will forever echo in the hearts of the Queensland and Australian athletics community, reminding us that a coach's greatness is not just in records broken but in lives touched and inspired.
"He leaves behind a void in Australian athletics that will be difficult to fill, but his influence will continue to inspire generations in the lead-up to Brisbane 2032 and beyond."
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.