The Australian athletics community is in mourning after the death of legendary jumps coach Gary Bourne at the age of 68.
Bourne has been Australia’s most successful horizontal jumps coach and guided the likes of long jumpers Bronwyn Thompson and Olympic medallist Mitchell Watt’s Australian records, as well as the world championship gold, Paralympic silver and bronze, and world record of Carlee Beattie.
He also led Henry Frayne to 2018 Commonwealth Games silver.
Stream Over 50 Sports Live & On-Demand with Kayo. Join now and start streaming instantly >
Those achievements are just the tip of the iceberg however in a legendary career.
Aussie cult figure sprinter and hurdler Michelle Jenneke, who is famous for her “Jiggling Jenneke” warm up, took to Instagram to farewell her former mentor.
“Rest in peace Gary,” she began.
“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.”
Jenneke wasn’t alone as a who’s who of Australian athletics stars paid tribute to the legend.
Australian Olympic gold medallist hurdler Sally Pearson said: “RIP Gary.”
Two time Commonwealth Games gold medallist and World Championships bronze medallist pole vaulter Kurtis Marschall wrote: “Contributed hugely to my progression! Will be hugely missed Gaz.”
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 shared her condolences on behalf of the entire athletics community.
“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.”
Discussion about this post