"Olympic Swimmer Richard Thornton Passes Away at California Beach"

Former US Olympian and renowned swimming coach Richard Thornton passed away at the age of 65 after collapsing on a beach in Santa Cruz, California. Thornton, who had been battling Multiple Myeloma, was remembered for his love of the water, both as a competitive swimmer and a surfer. He was a two-time All-American swimmer who qualified for the 1980 US men's Olympic swimming team but boycotted the Moscow Games. Thornton also had a significant impact as a coach, mentoring several future Olympians, including Matt Biondi. His death was not related to a surfing accident, and he is celebrated for living a life dedicated to his passions.