All articles tagged with #richardthornton
Former US Olympian and renowned swimming coach Richard Thornton, 65, tragically passed away due to a medical emergency while surfing in Santa Cruz, California. Thornton, who was part of the 1980 Olympic team that boycotted the Moscow games, had been coaching at San Ramon Valley Aquatics since 1984 and was a respected figure in the swimming community. His death is considered a significant loss to the sport.
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.
Richard Thornton, a renowned Bay Area swim coach and former U.S. Olympian, passed away at the age of 65 while preparing to surf at The Hook in Santa Cruz. His death was confirmed by his brother on Facebook, and while initial reports suggested he died while surfing, it was later clarified that he passed away upon entering the water. Thornton was a member of the boycotted 1980 U.S. Olympic team and had been coaching at San Ramon Valley Aquatics since 1984. He is remembered for his significant contributions to swimming and his impact on the lives of those he coached.